5 ways to get motivated for those early morning workouts!

I love morning workouts! 

I find it is the best way to start my day and keep me going through whatever comes my way. Getting out of bed is not usually easy, especially as the sun is rising later, but with these tips I hope you will give it a fair shot!

Yes, even at 38 weeks pregnant and off work, I
set my alarm for 6am and sneak in 20 minutes
of "me" time to sweat before I begin my day!

Remember, it takes time for a habit to form. Some say 21 days. So, give yourself a month of at least three first-thing-in-the-morning workouts per week and see how you feel! Journaling is a great way to keep track of your energy levels; both on the days you complete your morning routine and on the days you do not. Once in the rhythm, I find that I am actually more tired on the days I didn't exercise! 

Here we go:

1) Set out your workout clothes the night before
By choosing what you will throw on the minute you roll out of bed is motivating for two reasons. One, you don't have to think about what you will wear. Two, your clothes are sitting there ready for you and it is difficult to look at them and make the conscious decision to not put them on. 

Want to stay asleep until your Littles are awake? Definitely!
Make it fun for them too. Have special toys or their own
equipment so they become a part of your workout!

2) Choose a fun, yet short and effective workout
You can get a heart pumping, full body workout in less than 20 minutes. Plan your workouts according to how much time you realistically can commit to before your day begins. With the right moves and little to no breaks, you can get sweaty in just 15 minutes! Your endorphins will be bouncing and your morning shower will feel amazing! To make sure you really do not have to think that early in the morning, plan your workouts for the week on Sunday or at minimum the night before!

3) Know that you only have to shower once
That's right! Getting your workout done first thing in the morning actually saves time because you don't have to get ready or freshen up twice. So really ... you're increasing the amount of time you have in the day. You're welcome!

4) Excuses will not get in your way throughout the day
Things come up. Exhaustion sets in. Our day does not go as planned. When we leave our workout until the end of our day, there is a greater chance that something will get in our way and prevent us from getting that sweat in. By starting our day with our workout, not only are we boosting our metabolism, waking our body and mind, but also ensuring that exercise remains a priority!

3-ingredient protein pancakes:
3 eggs
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup cottage cheese
Blend together to form batter and cook
like pancakes. Top with fresh or thawed
berries, banana, unsweetened coconut flakes,
a drizzle of pure maple syrup, or
whatever you wish!

5) Have your post-workout fuel ready to go
Making a batch of steel cut oats on Sunday evening and having it ready in the fridge is a great way to save time in the morning and ensure that you have a tasty and satisfying breakfast post-workout! I know I am motivated by food...are you? Other options to make ahead of time are egg muffins or 3-ingredient pancakes (recipe below). Reheat, add your toppings, and enjoy!!
Added bonus: have your coffee prepped and ready to brew! Coffee, yes please! We grind our beans and have our machine ready before bed! I will sometimes start the maker before my workout and the beautiful scent makes it's way downstairs mid-way into my workout. Yumm!

Enjoy!!