"For a long time, working out felt like something I had to constantly push myself through: I would go through cycles of feeling unmotivated, and even when I felt motivated, I still dreaded working out. That is until a few small shifts in mindset and routine changed everything. Suddenly, it went from just another box to check off to a sacred part of my day that I genuinely looked forward to. Movement started to feel good again. Fun, even. The change was romanticizing my workouts instead of just checking them off my to-do list like a chore. It reminded me that moving my body is a privilege—not something I have to do, but something I get to do. So, why not make it beautiful? If you’ve ever found yourself dreading your workouts or struggling to stay consistent, romanticizing movement might be exactly what helps you fall in love with it again. Try these eight tips to fall in love with your workout routine.
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1. Set the scene
Whether you’re working out at home or heading to the gym, creating a calming or inspiring ambiance can help shift your mindset. At home, light a candle, diffuse essential oils, or open the windows to let in fresh air and sunshine. Tidy your space and roll out your mat with care, or even set up a small, dedicated workout corner to make your routine feel more special. If you’re hitting the gym or working out outside, get creative with a vibey playlist or rub essential oils on your wrist to bring a refreshing and energizing scent with you. Take a few deep breaths, stretch, or set a mental intention to make it an energizing moment, not just a task.
2. Create your workout soundtrack
Your workout deserves a soundtrack that gets you in the zone. Curate playlists that match the mood—soft and flowy for yoga, vibey pop for Pilates, or energetic beats for cardio. And don’t be afraid to mix it up. Try listening to a podcast or audiobook to keep your mind engaged, or if you’re feeling zen, leave your headphones behind and let the sounds of nature guide you during an outdoor session. Whatever you choose, make it something that enhances your workout and keeps it fun.
3. Dress the part
Nothing motivates quite like a cute workout set. There’s just something about feeling put together that instantly boosts your confidence. Just make sure to choose pieces that fit well and move with you because nothing kills the vibe like having to constantly pull up your leggings mid-squat. When you’re comfortable and feel good in what you’re wearing, you’ll be even more excited to get moving. Need some inspo? Click here for the cutest workout sets, here for the best sneakers, and here for Taylor Swift-approved athleisure.
4. Choose movement that feels good
One of the best ways to romanticize your workouts is to do something you actually enjoy. Moving your body is a privilege, but it doesn’t always feel that way if you’re dreading it. The key is to choose activities that make you feel good—physically and mentally—whether it’s dancing in your living room, hiking your favorite trail, trying a fun class, or simply stretching while watching your favorite show. It’s all about finding what is right for you, and when you do find forms of movement you love, you’ll start to crave them rather than see them as a punishment.
5. Be unpredictable
If you’re stuck in a cycle of doing the same workout every day, it might be time to shake things up. Try a new fitness class, explore different routes on your walks, or even switch up the time of day you exercise. Boredom is a fast track to losing motivation, so keep both your body and mind engaged with new challenges. The key is unpredictability. Not only will this keep your body on its toes, but it will also spark your creativity and boost your motivation. When your workouts feel like exciting experiments, you’re more likely to stick with them in the long run.
6. Change up the scenery
Changing up your workout location can breathe new life into your routine. A fresh setting offers a shift in perspective and a different kind of inspiration. There’s something magical about a golden hour stretch or an early morning walk as the world wakes up. Even a new gym or studio can bring a welcome change. Whether you’re at the beach, a local park, or in a cozy corner at home, the environment sets the tone. When your surroundings inspire you, the movement naturally follows.
7. Make it a date (with yourself or a friend)
Turn your workout into a date, whether it’s with a friend or just yourself. Plan a morning walk with a coffee run, try a new class together, or treat solo movement time like the most important appointment of your day. Chat between sets, swap life updates, or simply enjoy the good company. Even alone, you can make it feel special by treating it as quality time with music, movement, and a little main character energy. Framing your workout as a date shifts it from something you have to do to something you get to do.
8. Prioritize the before and after, as well
Romanticize the before and after just as much as the workout itself. Set the tone with a small pre-workout ritual—something that helps you ease in and feel ready. Afterward, give yourself something to look forward to, like a long, refreshing shower, a go-to smoothie, or a few peaceful minutes to stretch and slow down. You can even grab your journal and take extra time to reflect, reset, and enjoy the full arc of the experience. When you treat movement as part of a bigger moment of intention and care, it becomes something you actually want to come back to.
At the end of the day, it’s all about making your workout something you actually want to do, not something you have to. Romanticizing movement and switching up your routine, environment, and mindset can keep things exciting and make exercise feel like a highlight of your day.
Leanna Julius, Contributing Writer
Leanna is a long-time reader turned contributing writer for The Everygirl. She specializes in wellness and lifestyle content and strives to help others be their happiest and healthiest by sharing sustainable and simple life-approved tips and tricks.