After a season of holiday indulgence, most people are eager to hit the reset button. Lots of studios host monthly barre challenges in the new year hoping to get their clients back on track. Some studios like Barre Fitness are incentivizing participants with prizes for their 20 classes in 30 days challenge. Barre3’s All In challenge is more self-directed and Barre Body’s five-week challenge allows participants to network with each other in a closed, invite-only Facebook group. No matter what your goals are, there are tricks to help you stay motivated. Follow these tips to ensure you see optimal results at the end of your challenge.
1. Do it with friends.
Who says you have to do it alone? One of the best ways to keep yourself motivated is to do the challenge with a buddy.
2. Book all your workouts ahead of time.
Sign up for your classes as far in advance as you are allowed to, so you can visualize your schedule.
3. Write down positive words of encouragement and recite them to yourself daily.
You’ll find lots of great quotes if you search for them on Pinterest or Instagram. #MondayMotivation anyone?
4. Tell your friends and family that you’re doing the challenge.
If family and friends know about your goals, they’re more likely to check in with you and ask you how it’s going. This is a great way to keep yourself accountable. Take it a step further and blog about it. Putting it out there for the world to follow along with will certainly push you out of your comfort zone. Don’t have a blog? Tweet, Instagram or post your progress to Facebook.
5. Put your clothes out the night before.
I mentioned this in an article on how to make early morning workouts a regular thing. If you get organized the day before, it won’t seem so daunting to get out the door the next day. This is especially true if you register for a class before 7:00am.
6. Give yourself a gold star every time you complete a class.
As silly as it may seem, give yourself a gold star after completing each class. It doesn’t literally have to be a sticker. Perhaps you check off a box or put a mark on your calendar. Whatever it is that you use to signify the completion of your classes, it will help you to visualize your progress.
7. Reward yourself when it’s all done.
If the studio doesn’t provide some type of contest or incentive, then treat yourself instead. Did you have your eye on a new pair of leggings? Perhaps wait until you complete the challenge before purchasing them so you have something to look forward to.