When it’s cold, damp and grey outside, the last thing most of us want to be doing is puton our trainers and go for a run. We’d much rather stay under the duvet for an extra 20 minutes or sit on the sofa with a mug of something hot.

Which is why we’re such a fan of exercising at home! Whatever your fitness level or ability, Own Your Goals has an indoor workout for you. 

But how do you stay motivated to keep going throughout the winter (including Christmas) right through to spring? Here’s our tips to help you do just that.

1. Mix things up – when it comes to exercise, there’s really no need to be bored, especially with the 300+ workouts we have here on OYG. From learning how to squat properly to ten minute workouts, yoga and power boxing, we’ve got a range of workouts that mean you’ll be spoilt for choice and you’ll never get bored.
2. Don’t work out alone – having a workout buddy is so important. You’ll get each other through the off days when you really don’t feel like exercising and help each other celebrate the successes. Even if you don’t actually work out together, try to make sure you have someone or a group who you can rely on for motivation, support and celebration. Setting up a WhatsApp group and using it as a safe space to ask for help with motivation is great. You can also be there to help spur on someone else and that feels amazing. Plus of course the OYG community are also there for amazing support and encouragement!
3. Set a goal and strive for it – having goals gives us something to work towards, rather than aimlessly exercising with no motivation or purpose. Your goal might be to move up a programme to intermediate or advanced, or to complete more squats in one session or lose 5lbs by Christmas. Whatever your goal, keep visualising it and how you’re going to feel when you get there. Repeating positive affirmations such as “I am strong and confident and I’ve got this” will help you remain positive and focussed.
4. Allow yourself some festive treats – nothing breaks motivation more than setting unrealistic goals or being too strict. Telling yourself you’re not allowed a few mince pies, mulled wines or roast potatoes over Christmas is going to make you feel miserable. We all deserve treats, so join in the fun with everyone else and enjoy the festive season. Plus, if you have a really virtuous beginning of December, you’ll feel less guilty about the fun you have towards the end of the month.
5. Use the power of visualisation – setting your intentions at the beginning of each new season is a good idea, to help you adapt to the changing weather, new commitments and different holiday periods. Whilst we believe that any body is a ‘bikini body’, if your goal is to feel confident sitting on the beach during your next summer holiday, then visualise it. Think about how good it will feel to accomplish your goals. Dream it, live it, achieve it!