When I think about the main reason that I use to motivate myself to work out, it comes down to a key factor: feeling happy. Toxic fitness culture has forced the “no pain no gains” mantra for long enough. For some people, this works. I am not one of those people. As a washed-up collegiate ski racer, I know that tying physical activity to negativity only leads to dread. Why not make your relationship with working out a positive one? Whether you’re a recreational athlete, a collegiate athlete or somewhere in between, you can change the way you think about being active by following my five pieces of advice.

1. Find an activity that you genuinely enjoy. I know far too many people who think that running is the only workout option. False. Running isn’t everyone’s cup of tea! There are loads of activities out there, especially at SLU. Why force yourself to do something that you hate? You’re going to want to get out there and move if you know you’ll feel happy while you’re doing it.

2. Experiment with individual activities and COVID safe team sports. People often convince themselves that they don’t like being active simply because they haven’t tried it in a different group setting. On some days, all I need is a solo ski to get out of my own head. Other times, it’s really fun to share the experience with friends. Try a solo run, join an ultimate frisbee practice and figure out what you enjoy.

3. Set a goal. This could be anything from, “Attend club sport practice 5 days a week” to “Run for x amount of time.” If you want to set a speed related goal, that’s great too! The idea here is to give yourself another reason to get out the door and move. Set a goal that encourages workouts you enjoy.

4. Get over yourself. Nobody cares enough to check your pace, technique, or style when you’re working out. You need to take it easy because your knee hurts? Nobody cares! You get passed 4 times on the same stretch of a path? Nobody cares! Remember your goals and focus on yourself. Being comfortable with your ability on a given day is a key to finding happiness during your workout. 

5. Music, and I can’t stress this enough, changes everything. Do I have mini dance parties while I’m working out? Yes. I’ve found that if you play the right stuff, music will encourage you to move. I can’t explain the science behind why this works. I’m an art major. Go ask someone else. In the meantime, make a playlist that’ll make you look forward to your workouts. Start with some music that you like dancing to and see where that takes you. 

Results from following these tips will be pretty clear. If you find yourself smiling while you’re completing your workout, you’re doing something right. That’s how working out is supposed to feel! Put your mask on, get up, and get out there SLU.

                                 With love from your virtual workout buddy,

                                  Jordi