It’s almost March, ie spring break. You still have the holiday break weight, and perhaps even a new roll or two from consuming way too much chocolate on Valentines Day. It’s time to hit the gym, but unless you’re that crazy girl who is somehow motivated to get up at 6am to run on the treadmill every morning, getting there through the snow and ice can be a bit difficult. These tricks promise to get you sweating… because you don’t want to have to untag all of the bikini pictures from vacation, right?
Outfit yourself
Of course you don’t want to go the gym in your ratty old t-shirt from High School and oversized sweatpants. That’s only natural. We go to the gym to look better, not feel like a slob. Enter lulu lemon (or your exercise gear of choice). Treat yourself to a slimming pair of black workout pants and a bright color racer back top. You’ll be more motivated to move, and maybe you’ll even score the hottie’s attention on the treadmill next to yours.
Buy a new magazine (preferably one with pictures of fit and attractive people)
You’d be surprised how quickly an hour on the elliptical can go by when you’re flipping through a brand new Elle or Self. Grab a new mag and your dreaded workout will transform into a fun break from your dense philosophy reading. Plus, while you’re checking out skinny fashion models you might just notice your feet starting to push and pull just a tad quicker.
Stock up on the latest Jams
Remember Kanye’s workout plan? “1 and 2 and 3 and 4 and get them sit ups right.” Throw that onto a new playlist with some Swedish house Mafia, Black Eyed Peas and Britney and your gym experience will practically turn into a Dance Party (just don’t go busting any moves by the weight rack, could be a bit embarrassing.) As college women, we’re really not supposed to like anything more than a solid DP. So, let the beat build and do your workout thang.
Grab a Pal—preferably one of your most competitive friends
Sometimes all you need is a little extra push to get to the gym. Agreeing to go every Monday morning with someone will stop you from hitting the snooze button a fifth time. Once you’re there, you won’t let her out do you. Kiss those 15-minute treadmill sessions goodbye, and say hello to your new hot bod.
Sign up for Pilates
I tend to do better when a lady in her 40’s (who is more fit that I will ever be) is yelling at me: “No Quitting! Hold the plank!” When someone is watching, er judging, you, you tend to be a bit more motivated. These classes are a godsend, a whole room of girls banding together to survive the hell that is boot camp. And, if you have to shovel out some extra cash to even participate, you’re bound to make the most of it.