How to Make Sure You Work Out at Night
We Promise This Is the Easiest Tip to Make Sure You Get In Your Evening Workout
There's something tragic about bending over backward (literally) to take off a dry sports bra that hasn't been used at all. Though removing sweaty undergarments from your body post-workout might be hard, too, this seems a lot less fulfilling. After all, it restricted your boobs for however long you wore it without getting to support you strutting in full stride on the treadmill or crushing a few rounds of HIIT. That's why one of the easiest ways to make sure I exercise at night is changing into my workout clothes right when I get home. Until it has done its duty, the sports bra is staying put.
Tip: Change Into Workout Clothes ASAP
There are a few things you should know: On weekdays, working out at night after my commute is the most realistic schedule for me. Also, I have equipment (a treadmill, bike, weights, etc.) in my basement, so I don't physically have to leave the driveway to get in a good workout. It definitely helps keep me on track. That being said, it still can be a struggle, because, after all, the sun is setting — my brain is tired, my body is tired, my life is tired — and sleep sounds a lot more appealing than sprints, a booty-band leg session, or even yoga for stress.
Before I go any further, I want to note that I wholeheartedly believe that the only relationship worth having with exercise is a healthy one. So if you're truly exhausted or you are sore and need a recovery day, listen to your body. Don't force it by any means. I follow these rules, but I find that when I put on my workout clothes even if I'm eating a quick dinner first, my late-night workout will get done nine times out of 10.
Slipping into these clothes holds me accountable. It also, and this could be a placebo effect of sorts, makes me feel less tired. I'm compressed in my leggings and top, and I stand a little taller. Even if that's all in my head, I'm OK with it. Sometimes I'll work out before I make my meal. Sometimes I'll change, eat, prep for the next day, and then work out. Either way, I'm ready to exercise if I already look the part.
Another pro tip: don't forget to put on running shoes if you're working out at home (given that you're not too picky about people taking off their sneakers in your space). That way, there's less of a chance that you'll crawl into bed and snooze until morning. If you're going to the gym straight from work, change into your shorts and muscle tee before you leave the office, no matter how long your commute might be. And if you are like me and do most of your exercising in your humble abode, change right when you walk in the door. It's worked for me; maybe it'll do the same for you.
