Why Even Your Most Disappointing Workouts Are Still Helping You Reach Your Goals
We've all been in a place where we just couldn't seem to find the motivation to complete our daily workout. Whether it's because we are feeling rundown from our occupations, we can't seem to find the time, or we would just rather kick back and relax rather than lifting heavy, motivation to get our workouts in definitely ebbs and flows. If we do make the time, we're usually happy and grateful we got it in. However, there are just some of those workouts that don't feel good from beginning to end.
According to CNBC, many of us have struggled with the motivation to workout since the beginning of the pandemic. In addition, even if you are motivated, some workouts feel like you are just going through the motions. If you are plagued with little motivation or are afraid if you do try a workout, that it's not going to be the best, you are not alone. It's easy to forget just how good you feel after a workout, if you can't muster the motivation to begin. However, research suggests that you should get the workout in no matter what because even our most disappointing workouts are still benefiting us more than we think.
The benefits of working out
Although almost every time we complete a workout we feel better than we did before we began, there are some instances of workouts that don't feel great. A bad workout can occur because you weren't focused, you didn't eat well the night before, or your muscles felt weak (via Muscle and Fitness). If this has happened to you, you're not alone.
The good news is that exercise is so good for our bodies that even limited time working out can help you reach your goals. You do not need to workout for hours a day to see results. According to the Mayo Clinic, although most people should aim for about 30 minutes of aerobic activity a day, it only takes about 75 minutes of activity a week to get results from consistent workouts. According to The University of Rochester, aerobic activity prevents death by heart disease by 40% compared to those who don't participate in exercise at all. Each rep you take, mile you run, and stretch you complete is getting you healthier than if you had remained stagnant and skipped your workout.
Making the most of your workout
From time to time you will probably experience a workout that is lacking in some way. However, in order to get the most out of your workouts, there are steps you can take each time you enter the gym or begin on your trail. If you're struggling with lifting, Health Space Clinics recommends starting from the foundation and focusing on the basics. By resetting and perfecting your form, you'll be able to get the most out of each move. In addition, if you're finding yourself burnt out of your current routine, Beach Body On Demand recommends shaking things up. Work on de-stressing with a walk, a light jog, or some yoga to avoid injury. Then, resume your rigorous workout plan.
There will be times when your workout won't feel like it's benefitting you, but research proves that even a little cardio and strength training can go a long way. Your best bet is to keep changing up your approach and giving yourself some grace and know that you are improving with every workout.