Well, one thing is for sure…you guys really like chatting all things fitness and food!! I was thrilled you liked my Five Elements to Fitness post earlier this month, but more than anything, I love the conversation it started. (Be sure to read the comments here for so much more insight and helpful tips!)
Taking care of ourselves and our bodies is obviously a goal for many of us, and I’m so excited to dig a little deeper in to these topics. Some of the most asked questions were in regards to working out…how do I stay motivated, how often do I work out, do I work out while fasting? All great questions!!
Today let’s chat about motivation…
I think the biggest thing with staying motivated is to determine your ‘why.’ Why do you want to work out? Is it to lose weight? Tone muscle? Relieve stress? Gain confidence? Regardless of what it is, it has to be for you.
Then, find your meaning. Aside from stronger arms and smaller pant size, regular exercise leads to more energy, better body confidence, and improved overall health. When you associate positive impact with exercise, it takes the dread out of it, and becomes something you want to do for yourself.
Then determine (honestly!) the kind of exerciser you are. Are you self-motivated or do you need accountably? Will you push yourself to keep going or do you back off when it gets hard? Do you like to workout alone or with others? At home or away from the house? Finding a workout you can stick to is the best kind!
Tank | Sports Bra | Leggings | Hat | Jacket
I always worked out to keep my weight in check, but the older I get, it becomes more about my mental and physical health. I’d much rather feel strong and emotionally balanced than strive for ‘skinny.’
My meaning for exercise has changed, too. We lost my dad a year ago, and watching his body fail him changed my perspective of my own body so much. He would have given anything to be able to hike, run, ski, swim…anything! I realized then that I had a strong, capable body and didn’t want to take that for granted.
Once my perspective changed, I was able to appreciate my body for all it’s given me, and does for me everyday. The human body is an awe-inspiring machine, and I’m always amazed by how much it can do. I’m learning that my mind gives up way before my body.
Jacket | Shorts | Running Tee | Tights | Tank | Sports Bra | Leggings | Jacket
10 Workout Tips for Staying Motivated
So motivation for me has a lot to do with changing my mindset! But here are a few more tangible ways I stay motivated to workout, and give each workout my best.
- Put it to Paper | Schedule your workouts for a week at a time. Every Sunday, Mr. SP and I sit down with out calendars and book our classes
- Find Accountability | Whether that means signing up for a class you can’t cancel, or setting a time with a friend, make it harder for yourself to back out.
- Never Miss a Monday | Studies show exercising on Mondays sets a more positive tone for the week, and making better food and fitness choices.
- Find a Friend | Working out with a friend or spouse makes exercise more fun!
- Make Workouts Mindful | As much as exercise feels physical, much of it is actually mental. Visualizing the body you want is powerful when working out. When I feel like stopping, I picture how I want my body to look, and it’s power to keep going. I literally visualize the individual muscles growing longer and stronger. Cheesy? Yes! Does it work? Absolutely!
- Drop the Shame | Food and fitness aren’t all or nothing. Every workout and healthy meal choice is a victory, so don’t be derailed by negative self-talk. That donut is worth every delicious bite, so enjoy it! But balance it with a walk around the block.
- Practice Self Care | Give yourself permission to take days off and rest. Exercise should feel good!
- Focus on Non-Scale Victories | Notice the new definition of your bicep, the looser waistband of your favorite jeans, and decreased stress. Focus on those to appreciate how far you’ve come.
- Set Attainable Goals | Jumping into an intense routine or workout can be intimidating or lead to disappointment. I think of exercise in 1-minute increments. I may not be able to run 5 miles, or even a mile, but I can run for 30-seconds or 1-minute. Those 1-minutes add up and every single exercise is a victory!
- Appreciate Your Body | Our bodies are like snowflakes…no two are alike. Avoid comparing your body to others and look for what’s great about your own shape. That list will grow the more you focus on making healthier choices for yourself!
Jacket | Shorts | Running Tee | Tights
And if all that fails, grab some cute new workout gear!! I recently added some lululemon to my wardrobe, and finally see what all the hype is about! Especially when it comes to running.
Designed specifically for running, these Fast and Free cropped leggings are made with Nulux fabric, that’s quick-drying, sweat-wicking, and offers comfortable coverage and compression. I prefer leggings over shorts, and almost-always choose a cropped style. I love that these aren’t tight around the calf, and move with me as I run.
The tank is crazy soft and lightweight, and made with a genius anti-stink fabric! #forreal! My sports bra is specific support for A-C cups, and moves comfortably with me for everything from sprints to yoga.
Fit Tip: Sizing is similar to clothes, so I’m wearing a 2 in the leggings. I always size up one in workout tops, I’m wearing a 4 in the tank and sports bra.
Jacket | Running Tee | My Jacket | Hat
I love how smart and intuitive Lululemon’s pieces are, too. Storage systems, drawcords, ventilation and reflectivity are built in to every piece. The clothes are streamlined and close to the body, reducing the amount of fabric that can become a distraction (or discomfort!) while running.
Sugarplum Fit Tip: A good way to ensure the right size leggings…there should be no gathering or wrinkles in the crotch when walking/running. You want a smooth, even fit to prevent chafing or rubbing. Which likely means you need to size smaller than you think!
I always pull my hair back, and these scrunchies are great for not leaving a crease. The hat is lightweight, dries quickly, and perfect for shielding your eyes and face on an outdoor run. It also wicks the sweat away from your head, making it easier to revive your hair after a workout!
On days we don’t do classes, Mr. Sugarplum and I try to get out for a quick jog, or at least a walk with the dogs. We’re fortunate to live on a greenbelt, so we have lots of wide open space to escape. We’re also pretty competitive, so we push each other to work a little harder.
The Strava app is a great way to track your runs and connect with a community of runners, too. You can even find local routes to explore!
Tank | Sports Bra | Leggings | Hat | Shorts | Running Tee
He loves the soft, lightweight material of lululemon’s running shirts and shorts. This jacket is perfect for a light layer, or throwing on after workouts.
Shorts | Running Tee | Tights | Tank | Leggings | Hat
Tank | Sports Bra | Leggings | Jacket | Jacket | Shorts | Running Tee | Tights |
Tank | Sports Bra | Leggings | Hat | Jacket
Exercise is not a punishment (even though it feels like it sometimes!), but a privilege we have because of capable, healthy bodies. Changing your mindset and listening to your body can make all the difference in the world to your perspective and motivation.
What motivates you to workout? What’s your meaning behind it? Is lululemon part of your workout wardrobe? If so, which pieces are your faves?
*Photos by the darling and patient Audrie Dollins. This post is created in collaboration with lululemon and ShopStyle, but all product selects, and passion for body confidence is my own. Thank you for supporting Hi Sugarplum sponsors!*
LUV this post! As I sleep in and missed out going to the pool! Well, I did put out a bowl of fruits and vegs to eat for the day. Always grab that stuff first. Thanks Mr.&Mrs. SP!
All great motivating tips! And it’s hard to beat lululemon’s fab active wear.
I LOVE Lululemon! Their pieces are truly top-notch and the best. One of my favorite sayings when it comes to working out is, “Work out because you love your body, not because you hate it.” I think that’s perfectly in line with why I love keeping myself strong and healthy!
That is amazing motto…so true for working out, eating, self-love, etc!! Thanks for sharing that! xo
Really enjoying your fitness posts! These tips help alot especially when I feel like I’ve hit a wall! This is a totally off topic question but- I miss your DIY project posts! Do you think you’ll ever do any like that again? You had a post on a DIY Lazy Susan once I believe and that is how I found your blog so long ago! Been following ever since! <3
Thanks so much, Candice! I love writing them, and am thrilled you love them, too! It’s been awhile since I did smaller projects and crafts…with my kids older now, I don’t have as much use for the craftier items I loved, like teacher gifts! I still DIY from time to time, but most of that is shared on my Instagram Story. Over 9 years of blogging, my interests have definitely changed. Right now I’m so appreciative of the opportunity to create and share fashion, as well as travel and home decor! But who knows what will happen as our season of life changes!! xo
LOVE Lululemon! LOVE that you talked about and showed some pieces! They are pricey but so comfortable. I wear them whenever I’m not at work and can dress down. Perfect for errands and running around with the kids. So versatile! Would love it if you showed more pieces. My favorite is the Align pants. The nulu fabric is buttery soft and so comfortable! Also a big fan of the scuba hoodies. The thick ones are perfect for New England winters. 🙂
I’ve heard amazing things about the align leggings! I went with these because they’re specific to running, but def want to try those!
Hmmmm
You really are all over the place…Nordstrom, Walmart, Lululemon…JC Penney
Cassie, I used to love your blog, and I totally get you are continually evolving, but something is not sitting right with me. The Walmart posted just felt forced, and now Lululemon? It’s the polar opposite of Walmart. It’s not a question of giving us affordable options. You seem to be touting all sorts of sponsors, all lining your pockets. Which pieces really live in your closet? I don’t think Walmart and JC Penney are too prevalent. Lol…seriously?!
Take a breath, slow down, and come back to the genuine Cassie.
xoxo
Thanks for your insight, Rachel. I appreciate you reading the blog and taking the time to contribute. Yes, it’s a range of retailers, but that’s my job! Finding darling styles at all price points is my goal, and helping women feel beautiful and confident in their clothes and bodies regardless of budget! I don’t know any woman who shops one store exclusively, and if I can find a darling straw tote for $20, that’s a win in my book! Maybe the clothes weren’t for you in this post, but I hope the message inspired you! xo. C
I am a few years ahead of you but it would have been so helpful to have this perspecitve “way back then”! I do OTF twice a week (for 6 years now), spin once a week, and play pickleball and tennis, walk, hike, etc. etc. I think every time morning , I am able to do this today, thank you Lord, and I do it! Thank you for being relateable and encouraging.
Thank you so much, Janet!! I wish I’d been kinder to myself in years past, but better late than never, right!? So grateful for every day I’m able to stand upright and push myself to do more!! xo
I know it wasn’t the purpose of the post, but have to say how cute the two of you looked together. I always wish I had more pics of me and my husband having fun and unposed! So kudos on the info but also on the couple pics!
Thanks, Carla!! One of my fave parts about having this blog, is the personal scrapbook of our lives over the last 9 years!! Also, it’s hard to run and get a decent pic!! 😉
Yay! Finally a post about Lululemon! I absolutely love this brand and I live in their clothing since I’m at the gym 6 days a week. Their Align leggings are like nothing else I’ve felt. Honestly, I hate taking them off to wash them, lol. Yes, they are pricey but they last forever and I believe you get what you pay for. I’m always excited for other women who discover them for their workouts! You look great in them btw! Love the Post… Also, you and your husband are seriously the cutest!
I’ve heard rave reviews about the Align leggings…those might be on my list next!
Gotta love that puppy running face with the tongue out 🙂 I’ve been wearing lululemon gear for a few years. I don’t have a ton of pieces and none of their leggings but I should. My work out motivation is next to non existent to be honest. I have the potential to be quite athletic but I’m also excessively lazy! So my work around has always been to bike to work in the summer. Winters here in Canada’s capital are long, snowy and quite awfully cold so you won’t catch me dead outside for any extended period of time. However, once it gets above 10 degrees Celsius in the morning (50 f ?) and the snow is gone (which, by the way, has just happened this week), I get the bike tuned up and start cycling to work (which is not super convenient as I have to drive 15 minutes to a “park and ride” where I can park my car all day for free and then ride the bike to work for 30 mins and do it all again on the way back home). I find that cycling is the perfect in between for me. I’m doing a good workout (1 hour a day) and, once I’m on the bike, I have no choice but to get going and do the exercise to the end because otherwise, I’ll be late for work and that’s just not something I want. And to be honest, once I’m on the bike, the ride is always really nice (I take the scenic road by the river so I’m safe on a bike path in a pretty setting). The geese are currently nesting so they’re all over next to the bike path and because I’m early enough, I get to see all the rabbits in the morning. In a couple of months we’ll see the geese hatchlings come out so it’ll be really cute (aside from the mounds of goose poop all over the bike path but that’s a small price to pay). As you said, you just gotta find the exercise that agrees with you. I’ve biked to work every summer since I was a teenager so my body really responds to it and within 2 months, I lose all my “winter weight”. And bonus, I save 115$ a month on public transportation. Win-Win
Thanks for the fitness posts! I love your style and appreciate the wide range of options you provide from various stores. 😀
Cute pictures!! I feel like you’ve been loyal to Zella in the past, what do you see as differences between the two brands? Just curious as I love Zella but have started to think about getting in a pair of Lulus.
I LOVE Zella…its still my first love when it comes to workout leggings. But I have to say, I’m a convert with these leggings when it comes to running specifically. They have so much more support. I’ve heard the wear-life is longer on Lululemon, so you don’t need to replace them very often. Excited to see for myself and try a few more styles!
Lululemon is my FAV! I’ve never owned a piece I didn’t love and they will guarantee their pieces for like 5 years so while they are pricey, you can’t take a 3 year old pair of Zella leggings back to the store when a seam comes out or a hole pops up. Their Swiftlys are my favorites and the Essential tanks are great! For OTF it’s Fast and Frees and Run Times! And the Energy bra is the best athletic bra I’ve ever owned, I have several!
Such great endorsements, Leslie!! Thanks so much for sharing!! xo
Hi Cassie. Thanks for the 10 workout tips for staying motivated. In fact, it’s difficult to deal with myself to do exercise following the time schedule. However, I also buy some body shapers from https://www.womenangle.com/best-body-shapers/. Although body shapers give me a good result but I know that exercise is the best. So, I have to do both. I’ll try with the 10 workout tips.
I hope you do more of these types of posts, although I love your style tips also. Just having a reminder every so often is encouraging. I am 54 and it can be so discouraging because it’s more difficult to lose weight, but it’s so important to keep the body strong and the joints flexible! Seeing how cute you look in all your fashion posts is motivating and it’s nice that your husband is such a good partner which makes life better. Do you two share a lot of common interests?
Thanks, April…I’m thrilled you find inspiration here!! Mr. SP and I share quite a few interests, but also have just as many we enjoy separately! 😉
How tall are you for style reference
I’m 5’4″ 🙂
I wear Native brand natural deodorant and with every shipment in the box is a card the reads:
“TAKE CARE OF YOUR BODY, IT’S THE ONLY PLACE YOU HAVE TO LIVE”
I’d never heard that before and it really makes you think! I save the cards and put them on the fridge and my bathroom mirror. A little reminder to try my best every day!
I love that!! Thank you for sharing!!