5 habits that ruin your motivation when you work out/exercise

When starting our journey to physical fitness, many of us are guilty of keeping habits that can wreck our energy levels, performance, and overall workout experience. They can be so ingrained that we don't know they affect us while trying to get fit. Fortunately, by understanding and addressing these habits, you can adjust accordingly to optimise your exercise and maximise results.

TAKE A LOOK: 8 celebrities who are reaping big gym rewards

Being on your phone (at the gym)

Plan your gym or workout time to be a phone-free zone until you are done. If you want to record yourself, make sure it is in airplane mode. Use your time to perfect your form, stay present, and pay attention to your body.

"These distractions lower your effort levels and focus, making the short workouts seem long. Take the time when you're working out yourself to focus on yourself. Turn the phone to do not disturb, crank the music, and get after it," recommends Nobbe.

Poor time management

Getting into a workout routine requires dedicated time. If you constantly rush through workouts or skip them due to time, you need to address that issue to prioritise exercise.

CHECK OUT: How going to the gym can save you from depression

"A great workout doesn't have to be hours spent in the gym daily. There are excellent, quicker workout options available. The key is making time for exercise and movement. Start by blocking off time for a workout or movement breaks on your calendar," says Nobbe.

Not practising recovery

Recovery downtime is as essential to success in the gym as working out. You risk muscle fatigue, increased injury risk, and little to no progress otherwise. Instead, incorporate rest days into your routine, get plenty of quality sleep, and engage in relaxation and rejuvenation activities such as stretching.

READ HERE: Why A Pass gives his feet ice baths

"Ensure you make time for mobility after a workout, whether stretching or foam rolling. In addition, hydration and nutrition are essential to ensure your fuel levels are ready for tomorrow's session. I recommend taking five to 10 minutes close to bedtime, working on breathing techniques, and running through a mobility session. These can help promote better sleep and, in turn, better recovery," he says.

Poor rehydration

Working out can become a desert sport if you have trouble with water intake. Hydration is critical to staying focused and capable of optimal performance during workouts. Dehydration can drain your energy levels quickly, cause muscle cramps, and make you lose focus.

"Not hydrating can lead to a lack of recovery, lower energy levels, and more strain on the body. Consuming the right kind and adequate fluids helps electrolyte balance and allows the body to perform well. Fluids need to be consumed before, during, and after training," Nobbe cautions.

Not prioritizing nutrition

You may get away with poor nutrition when you don't have to work out/Pixabay Pulse

You may get away with poor nutrition when you don't have to work out but it is essential to break that habit when exercising. Nutrition fuels your energy levels, cognition functions, and muscles.

CHECK OUT: 5 foods that will waste your time and money at the pool

"Proper nutrition enhances your energy levels, boosts strength, promotes recovery, and helps your body function properly," Nobbe states. "Not eating, or not eating the right things, before training can be detrimental. Look to have a meal two to three hours before, followed by a light snack one hour prior. Focus on easily digested foods, including lean protein, simple carbohydrates, and low-fat options."

READ HERE: How you stay focused when you'd rather not exercise

Takeaway

If you choose to get in better physical shape, you need to know which habits can drag you back. These habits are attached to the prior lifestyle such as phone addiction, poor nutrition, poor hydration, and poor time management. While these habits might not have been bad outside your new workout routine, they can pose serious risks and make your routine a waste of time. Hopefully, these tips can help you adjust your lifestyle to fit your fitness goals.