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Minimizing Gym Distractions: 8 Tricks to Have an Awesome Workout
Written by
Jessica Sanders
The gym is a distracting place. People, equipment and loud music can make it difficult to get in the zone when you step inside. However, that doesn't mean it's not possible to stay focused from the start of your workout to the finish. Quite the opposite—make these simple adjustments to your workout routine and you'll be more focused and effective in no time.
Have a Plan
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Go into every workout with a plan. The more specific your plan is, the more effective this tactic will be for you. For example, if you want to do a circuit workout, write it before you get there. Be sure to include how many reps and sets you plan to do, along with the weight you'll use. This eliminates the wandering tendency many people have when they get to the gym—What should I do? What weights should I use?
Wear Wireless Headphones
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Headphones help to cut out the distraction of music and gossiping treadmill neighbors, but even the cords from your headphones can be distracting. If you've ever accidentally snagged the cord with your hand during a run on the treadmill, sending your phone careening to the ground, then you've experienced this distraction first hand.
Wear wireless headphones that connect to your phone via Bluetooth. No cords, less distraction.
Wear wireless headphones that connect to your phone via Bluetooth. No cords, less distraction.
Work Out Alone
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Hitting the gym with a workout buddy can be motivating, but exercising next to your best friend is a recipe for distraction. If you need a partner to motivate you to get to the gym, plan to part ways when you step inside. This will help you focus on your workout, rather than the latest drama with your friends.
Wear Well-Fitting Clothes
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Swap out your old, baggy t-shirts for tops that fit to your body. Not only will this allow you to focus on the workout instead of your shirt getting in the way of your dumbbell row, but being able to see your muscles in action can be the motivation you need to push through a tough set.
If you don't feel comfortable in tight clothes, you can:
? Opt for darker colors, which are often more slimming than lighter hues.
? Wear well-fitting t-shirts, rather than tank tops.
? Wear capris or full-length leggings, rather than shorts.
If you don't feel comfortable in tight clothes, you can:
? Opt for darker colors, which are often more slimming than lighter hues.
? Wear well-fitting t-shirts, rather than tank tops.
? Wear capris or full-length leggings, rather than shorts.
Double Knot Your Shoelaces
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There's nothing like untied shoelaces to throw your focus out of whack. Double knot them before you start your workout so you have one less thing to worry about.
Find a Space for Yourself
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The best way to get rid of distractions: shut them out. Most gyms have at least one large room where group workouts are held. If there's no one in that room, grab the equipment you need and complete your workout there. Other places like basketball, tennis or racquetball courts can be used as well, so long as no one is in there already.
Bring a Water Bottle
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Don't get distracted by looking for the nearest water fountain. Bring a water bottle full of ice cold H2O and keep it with you, so you can hydrate without stepping away from your routine.
Put Your Hair Up
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The gym is full of people you may want to impress with your long flowing hair, but this only leads to distraction. Instead of letting sweaty hair stick to your back or fly into your mouth, put it up before you get to the gym and leave it that way until you're done.