Even when you have the best intentions to fit in a workout at the beginning of the day, it can be hard to muster the willpower to get out of bed when the alarm rings. You love to sleep – but the benefits of your workout far outweigh an extra hour in bed.

Don’t beat yourself up if you cringe at the thought of getting out of bed in the morning. Instead, you just need to plan a few proactive steps to help you feel motivated when it’s time to work out.

Tip 1: Visualize When Going to Bed

Set your intention before going to sleep at night. When you are preparing to go to sleep, take a moment to visualize yourself waking up in the morning to exercise. Setting your mindset before rest can train your brain for what is coming in the morning.

Let your mind move through each step that will happen to help you get to the gym: the alarm rings, your feet hit the floor, you get dressed, and then enjoy the workout. This visualization exercise makes a big difference to help you feel better in the morning.

Tip 2: Set Out Your Exercise Clothes

Reduce any barrier that might slow down your momentum in the morning. One solution is to set out your workout clothes the night before, so you don’t have to decide what you are going to wear.

When you get out of bed, your yoga pants and running shoes will be waiting. Maintain the rhythm by changing into these clothes as soon as you are awake.

Tip 3: Program the Coffee Machine

When you smell the scent of coffee drifting through the house, it can be an excellent motivator to help you get out of bed. Set the timer on your coffee machine, so you wake up to the smell when your alarm goes off. If you don’t have an automatic coffee machine, it might be time to invest in this handy tool.

Coffee can be a great solution to give you a little pep before you leave the house. Just make sure to drink plenty of water as well, so you don’t get dehydrated during your workout.

Tip 4: Remember Your WHY

Why are you choosing to work out? Getting out of bed is easier if you stay motivated by focusing on your “why.” Maybe you want to look good in a swimsuit for an upcoming vacation. Or, you want to have the energy and vitality to play with your kids each day.

Identify your “why,” then set a reminder near your bed. One option is to put a picture on your phone that reminds you when you look at the phone to turn off the alarm.

Tip 5: Maintain a Consistent Schedule

It’s easier to keep the habit when you are waking up at the same time every day. Even if you are taking a rest day, keep your alarm set to wake up at the same time as your workout days. It’s helpful to maintain this same wake-up time on the weekends as well.

This consistency helps the brain set the pattern you need. As a result, you’ll start to feel more alert in the morning as you adjust to the new schedule.

Tip 6: Set a Realistic Workout Schedule

If you are just beginning a new workout routine, then take it slow. It isn’t realistic to plan a 2-hour exercise session when you need to be showered and at your work desk by 8 am.

An ideal workout should take less than an hour. Plan enough time to work up a sweat and strengthen your muscles without feeling like the morning activity is cutting into your day too much.

Tip 7: Invest in Yourself

Some people find they are more consistent with their workout when they are paying for a class or membership. You don’t want to waste the money you are spending on your gym pass. Use the financial investment as a motivation to help you wake up in the morning.

If you need a little more of a boost, then consider booking a private training session or paid class first thing in the morning. When you put money into a nonrefundable class, it will help you follow through with your plan to exercise.

Tip 8: Workout with a Friend

Meeting a friend at the gym helps to improve your motivation for getting out of bed. When someone relies on you to be there, it builds in the accountability you need to follow through on your word.

Reach out to neighbors, friends, or family to find someone who is also working on their fitness goals. If your workout routines and schedules align, then you can plan a meetup time at the gym. Otherwise, you might be able to meet other people who are often at the gym at the same time in the morning.

Tip 9: Go to Bed

Getting up early starts with your bedtime the night before. If you are pushing your schedule and staying up too late, then it leaves you feeling exhausted in the morning. On the other hand, honoring your bedtime gives your body the rest you need, making it easier to wake up when the alarm rings.

If you have a hard time sleeping at night, set a nighttime routine to help you wind down. Sip on a cup of tea, dim the lights, and avoid looking at your phone or TV for at least an hour before bed. These routines signal the brain that it’s time to sleep.

Enjoy Your Workouts at a Quality Gym

Getting out of bed to exercise is easier when you find a gym that you love. If you are looking for a place to exercise, join Fitness Nation. Your membership gives you access to a fantastic community and the quality equipment and weights you need to support your fitness goals.