How to Exercise When You're Tired

It's the end of a long day of work. You peep at your gym bag, which seems to be smiling right back at you. You think to yourself, I just can't do it today; I can't give it a go. Try these tips to help you exercise when you're tired.

Make a deal with yourself

Forcing yourself to exercise when you're tired isn't the simple solution. Rather than relying on will, make a deal with yourself instead. Consider shortening your workout by exercising harder for a shorter amount of time. Work out just enough to break a sweat and elevate your heart rate. Then reward yourself by heading home.

Set goals

Are you planning on going to the beach or lake in the upcoming months? Maybe you want to lose a few pounds for health reasons. Consider setting goals for yourself. It may be losing X amount of pounds by vacation. Setting goals will give you focus, especially on those days when you need to exercise when you're tired.

Throw your workout a curve ball

Try doing something different in your workout. For example, instead of another day on the Stairmaster, try cycling. This sudden change in physical activity that your body is not anticipating may give you a quick mental boost. Just keep in mind if you're not sure how to use a particular machine, ask a trainer for instruction.

Splash some water on your face and gulp some water

Yes, this sounds a little quirky. Splash some cold water on your face. This will give you a quick jolt and get you moving. Then drink some water and hit your workout. Try it.

Buy some new workout gear

Sometimes throwing out that worn-out fraternity t-shirt may be in order. Yes, I know you won 52 straight games of beer pong in that t-shirt, fantastic! It's time for the rafters. Invest in some new workout threads that are comfortable and hip. Although you may be tired on the way to the gym, some new workout gear may put you in a positive frame of mind.

Focus on one muscle group

Try designating specific exercise days for specific muscle groups. For example, Mondays could be biceps and shoulders and Wednesdays could be triceps. Focusing on one muscle group for that day may help you get motivated.

Exercising when you're tired isn't fun, but hopefully some of these tips will give you a spark plug. Your mind and body will thank you.