Let’s face it—starting an early morning workout routine can be hard. It’s so easy to talk yourself out of getting up when you want to stay in bed. But I’ve finally cracked the code for those of us that have never done this before and I’m spilling all my practical secrets. So, if you’re always trying to figure out when to fit exercise into your schedule or you’ve been thinking about starting a morning workout routine, stick around.

Here’s how I finally made the shift to early morning workouts, and how you can, too:

1. The Discomfort of NOT Doing It Outweighed the Discomfort of DOING It

I’ll be honest, I was contemplating this one for a while. And while many of us are very familiar with the benefits of a regular exercise routine, finding our “why” or reason for doing it in this very season of life can be the motivation to really commit to it. What finally pushed me to start this new routine was wanting to have more ENERGY and feel better throughout the day. Find your reason!

2. I Took the “All or Nothing” Approach Off the Table

As a parent of young kids, I knew sometimes despite my best efforts my day would not start with a workout. So, instead of letting a missed day (or week- hello, cold season) throw me off track, I mentally made a list of all the things that might get in the way of morning exercise- sick kids, a bad night of sleep, out of routine weeks, etc. and accepted these things would happen sometimes. I stopped holding myself to an unrealistic, all-or-nothing standard. That shift made it so much easier to get started—and keep going.

3. I Started with Realistic Goals

Instead of deciding I would work out for a specific amount of time each morning the goal was simply to get some sort of movement in. 15 minutes of movement still counts. I kept it simple. No pressure to be perfect. This helped me stay consistent and build the momentum I needed to make it a regular habit.

4. I Noticed How Good I Felt on the Days I Worked Out First Thing

This is a big one. There’s something about getting a workout in early that makes the rest of your day feel like a win. I felt more energized, more focused, and just generally more positive. Once I started experiencing how much better I felt physically and mentally on the days I worked out before anything else, it became an easier choice.

5. I Have a Plan (And a Backup Plan)

I map out my workouts for each week. But if I’m not going to be able to fit in what I had planned, I have a go to 15 minute workout as a back up. Having this flexibility made it easier to stick to my commitment.

6. I Prioritize Sleep

This one’s huge. I knew that for my morning workout habit to stick, I had to prioritize getting enough sleep. I’ve moved bedtime earlier most nights in order to have the rest I need to get up early.

Steps to Build Your Own Morning Workout Routine:

Now, I want to help you build your own morning workout habit. It’s not as hard as it sounds, I promise. Here’s how to get started:

1. Mentally Prepare

Grab a pen and paper or jot down in your phone the following-

-Why you want to start working out in the morning. Be as specific as possible.

-What things might get in the way of this? Can you troubleshoot any of these challenges? Are you able to accept the rest of them?

2. Set a Consistent Time

Pick a time that works for you and stick to it. I know mornings can be chaotic, but try to carve out a specific window in your morning where you can focus on your workout. The key is consistency.

3. Make It Enjoyable

You’re much more likely to stick with a workout routine if it’s something you actually enjoy. Choose workouts you love, whether it’s dancing, yoga, running, or strength training. If you’re not sure what you like, experiment with different types until you find something that excites you.

4. Prepare the Night Before

Get everything ready the night before—your workout clothes, shoes, and any equipment you need. This way, you don’t have to waste time looking for things in the morning. The less friction there is, the more likely you are to follow through.

5. Don’t Beat Yourself Up

Some days will be harder than others—and that’s okay. If you miss a workout, don’t give up on the whole routine. Just get back to it the next day. Focus on the progress you’re making, not perfection.

6. Celebrate Small Wins

It’s easy to get caught up in the big picture, but take time to celebrate the small wins. Maybe it’s the fact that you’re getting up earlier or that you’re sticking to your plan—even when it’s tough. Acknowledge your progress and give yourself credit.

Ready to Start Your Morning Workout Routine?

I know it can feel challenging to make the shift to morning workouts, but if you’ve been thinking it might be the best option for you, give it a try! Start with small steps, be kind to yourself, and remember that every workout, no matter how small, is a step in the right direction.

What’s your first step going to be today? Let me know in the comments below, and let’s make this journey together!