8 Tips to Prevent Workout Burnout

When you’ve made that decision to finally hit the gym (seriously this time), you’re often pretty excited to get started. There’s always that anticipation of getting new workout gear, trying out your routine, and finally starting to see those results you’ve been wanting.

But what typically starts off strong, can sometimes fizzle out pretty quickly. Unfortunately, that passion you once felt for hitting the gym, has totally faded. And you’re guilty of skipping workouts to watch Netflix while lying on the couch. This, my friends, has all the classic signs of the dreaded “workout burnout”.

It is the absolute last thing you want to happen if you’re committed to sticking to a new fitness routine. You want to stay energized and you want to make sure you’re always looking forward to the gym. That’s why we’re sharing a few tips to help you prevent workout burnout.

1. Ease Into Your New Workout Routine

If you’re just getting back into a fitness routine, you may have all the motivation in the world to hit the gym hard. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the best way to go because it may actually be too much for you to handle all at once. And then, you’ll wind up feeling worn out and dreading going to the gym.

Instead, what you need to do is slowly ease into your new routine. For those who aren’t accustomed to working out regularly, try going to the gym just twice a week instead of four right off the bat. You can get your body acclimated to this new change and work your way up to longer, more frequent workouts.

2. Change Up Your Routine Often

Another important tip is to change up your routine often. After all, if you’re doing the same workout day in and day out, you’re going to get incredibly bored. You won’t want to hit the gym when it’s just going to be the same old thing. It’s important to keep it fresh by switching up your workout from time to time. Plus, changing your routine when needed can help you avoid an exercise plateau.

If you’re used to hitting the gym four days a week, try working out at home one of those days. Or you can sign-up for a class instead of spending that hour on the gym equipment. You need to find ways to keep your workouts fun and interesting and you’ll be less likely to succumb to workout burnout or stop seeing results.

3. Find an Accountability Partner

Having a friend by your side is also a great way to prevent workout burnout. It’s nice having someone there who can cheer you on and support you on your journey to a fitter, healthier lifestyle. Whenever times get tough, your accountability partner is there to talk to. Not only that, but you can hit the gym together or sign-up for the same classes. This can make gym sessions feel less like a chore and more like a fun activity.

Your best bet is to find a friend who has similar fitness goals to you. Whether you both just want to be healthier or if you’re striving to lose weight, it’s a great source of motivation.

4. Create an Energizing Playlist

There’s nothing like a great playlist to help you power through a tough workout. And if you’ve been listening to the same songs every time, it can get a little dull. To reignite your passion for the gym, create a new workout that’ll boost your mood and get your energy up. It’ll help you pass the time on that treadmill with ease.

5. Reward Yourself for Hitting Milestones

Who doesn’t love a little reward for making progress on our goals? It’s a simple, yet effective, way to keep yourself working hard. You can give yourself a little something special for finally reaching four workouts per week or for the most calories you’ve ever burned while on the stair climber. Or if you’re striving to lose weight, treat yourself for making progress towards your bigger goal.

But here’s the thing, don’t treat yourself with junk foods. That can create unhealthy habits that will pull you farther away from your fitness goals. Instead, buy something that’s going to make you excited to continue hitting the gym. That can be as simple as a new piece of clothing to wear the gym or even some equipment that’ll make your workouts more effective.

6. Switch Up When You Workout

If you’re used to working out in the evening, but find it difficult to do after a long day, it’s time to switch it up! Try waking up a little earlier and doing your workouts in the morning and see how that feels. For many of us, it’s nice to get it done and out of the way first thing. That way, you can go about the rest of your day not having to worry about it. Plus, you’ll have much more energy in the morning than after a long, hard day at work.

7. Nourish Your Body After Workouts

Once you’ve wrapped up your workout, don’t forget to nourish your body afterwards. It’s one of the most important ways to help you recover and grow. By eating the right foods and getting plenty of hydration, you’ll recuperate quicker and be even stronger the next time you step in the gym. Some great recovery snacks include: greek yogurt, peanut butter toast with banana, or an almond milk-based smoothie for the best results. The key for workout recovery snacks is to stick with non-processed, healthy, and protein-packed foods.

8. Remember That You’ll Get Better in Time

And don’t forget that working out is tough, especially if you aren’t used to it. It’s going to take time to work up to the level you want to be at. Don’t get frustrated if you aren’t where you want to be yet. You just have to keep putting in the time at the gym and you’ll get there. So, don’t worry about comparing where you’re at to what the others are doing. Keep working out and you’ll be on the right path.