Consistency over intensity

Training Doesn’t Have to Be Intense Every Time

We’ve all seen or heard the motivational fitness quotes:
“Your workout is our warm-up!”
“Push hard or go home!”
“We don’t need machines; we are machines!”

Sound familiar? I’ll admit, I’ve probably said things like this before, and at one time, I truly believed it. The idea that every workout has to be a max-effort, sweat-dripping grind has been ingrained in many of us.

But let’s be real—that doesn’t always need to be the case. Especially now, when stress levels are already through the roof. Between work, family, trying to keep up with life, and all the chaos around us, sometimes a crushing workout isn’t the answer.

Exercise is incredible for your mind and body, but it’s also a stressor. If you’re already juggling too much, give yourself permission to slow it down. A lighter workout still counts. A warm-up that you call it quits on? That still counts. Something is better than nothing, and it all adds up to a healthier you.

Struggling to Find Motivation? You’re Not Alone

Lately, I’ve had so many conversations with people who are feeling stuck when it comes to training. For many, exercise is usually the best part of their day, but right now? Not so much. And I’ll be honest—I own a gym, and even I’m struggling to find my rhythm. So, if you’re in the same boat, know that you’re not alone, and it’s completely normal.

Let’s rethink why we train. Your goal doesn’t always have to be hitting a new PR or running your fastest mile. Sometimes, the goal can simply be to move, take a mental break, or spend time with someone else. Moving your body—even if it’s “just” a short walk or a few push-ups—is still a win.

Tips to Make Training Feel Easier

If you’ve hit a slump or walked away from workouts altogether, here are a few ideas that might help:

1. Get it done early
   I know—mornings are tough. As a parent of a little boy who thinks 6:00 a.m. is sleeping in, I get it. But hear me out: your willpower is strongest at the start of the day. If you can squeeze in some movement first thing, you’ll be much more likely to make it happen.
2. Keep it simple
   Not every session has to leave you on the floor. A 20-minute walk? Counts. A few rounds of lunges, squats, and sit-ups? That’s a solid session. Even doing some exercises while watching your favorite show works—no judgment here. Pick something you enjoy, and let it be easy.
3. Make it a game
   Turn your workout into something fun. Try this:

• Draw a 3×3 grid (like tic-tac-toe). Pick an exercise—let’s say squats.
• While watching TV or chatting with someone, do a quick set of squats.
• Write down your reps in one of the boxes, then take a break.
• Repeat until the grid is full. By the end of the show, you’ll have knocked out nine sets without even thinking about it!

4. Try an EMOM workout
   Short and effective, EMOM (every minute on the minute) sessions are great for days when you want something structured but not overwhelming. Here’s a 12-minute version:

• Minute 1: Squats
• Minute 2: Push-ups
• Minute 3: Lunges
• Minute 4: Plank

Do just 20 seconds of work each minute, then rest for the remaining 40 seconds.

5. Train with someone
   Accountability makes a huge difference. If you live with someone, ask them to join you—even if you’re at completely different fitness levels. Don’t have anyone at home? Meet up outdoors or hop on a video call. You don’t even have to do the same workout—just knowing someone else is moving with you can be a game-changer.

Be Kind to Yourself

The truth is, there’s already so much going on in the world. Don’t add unnecessary pressure by being hard on yourself about exercise. Some days, you’ll get it done. Other days, you won’t. And that’s okay.

If today doesn’t go as planned, try again tomorrow. The goal is progress, not perfection. Keep showing up in whatever way you can—you’re doing better than you think.