This post is sponsored by ASICS.

My workout routine has evolved and changed a lot this year. In the spring, I was struggling to find a routine. I would have weeks where I went to the gym regularly and weeks where I didn’t do much beyond walking. I think I was feeling burned out and I wasn’t sure what to do next. Then I decided to take a bit of a leap and get my personal training certification through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM).

Liz Thomson

Around the time I started that program, I also started Kayla Itsines’ Bikini Body Guides. (You can read my review the BBG workout program here!) Between those two things, it jump-started my motivation and I’ve found myself in a nice rhythm ever since. These days, I like it switch things up. On a normal day, I’ll often do the “daily moves” from the Tone It Up app. If I have a little more time, I might do a Blogilates video. I also love taking group workout classes and it’s a great excuse to get together with friends!

Liz Thomson

If you find yourself struggling to find the time or motivation to get into a workout routine, here are a few of my tips.

1. Find the right accountability

I’ve been reading Gretchen Rubin’s book Better Than Before which talks about habits and personal tendencies. I learned that I’m more likely to stick with a habit if I have external accountability. This doesn’t mean I have to workout with someone every time, but it does mean that I find it helpful to have other people around me on the same journey. I started the BBG workouts with a friend and knowing that she was sticking to the plan made me feel like I had to keep my end of the bargain! In the end, it got us both in a steady workout habit.

Liz Thomson

2. Pick a workout you actually enjoy

This sounds so simple yet for the longest time, I was forcing myself to do workouts I didn’t really enjoy. I LOVE pilates and Zumba style workouts so when I’m signing up for a class, I look for those types of workouts. I don’t mind strength training workouts but after a couple of CrossFit classes, I knew it wasn’t for me. There’s no right or wrong workout, but sometimes you have to try a few things before you find something you really like!

Asics

3. Don’t break a promise to yourself

I read Girl, Wash Your Face earlier this year (and absolutely loved it!) and one of the things that stuck out to me was Rachel’s perspective on keeping promises to yourself. Here’s the quote from the book:

I know that blowing off a workout, a date, an afternoon to organize your closet, or some previous commitment to yourself doesn’t seem like a big deal—but it is. It’s a really big deal. Our words have power, but our actions shape our lives.”

I think we’ve all been guilty of breaking the promises to ourselves, but they should be just as important as our promises to others. Thinking about it that way has really shifted the way I think about my goals and commitments.

Asics

4. Get some new workout gear!

You don’t have to spend tons of money on a new wardrobe but I’m definitely more motivated to workout when I’ve got clothes I feel good in. I recently ordered the ASICS GT-2000 from Zappos and they’re so comfortable. They’re lightweight but they still provide the support I need when I’m running or jumping. They’re obviously great for a run but they’re also great for strength workouts. They’re even light enough for some spontaneous handstands!

Liz doing a hand stand

Sometimes I’m hesitant to order shoes online because I’m super picky, but Zappos has fast, free shipping. Their 365-day return policy means I know I have time to make sure I really love my shoes! Their customer service is amazing and they have tons of styles to choose from. (Plus, I love being able to shop online this time of year!)

A young girl running on a sidewalk

Sticking with a routine is a lot easier than creating a routine, so don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t happen right away. And although there are definitely days when I skip my workout because there isn’t time, I’ve found that I rarely skip a workout simply because I’m not “feeling” it. I love the way it clears my head. On stressful days, it’s tempting to crash on the couch but I know I’ll feel better after a quick kettlebell session or a jog on the treadmill!

Do you have any tips for sticking with a workout routine?