“It’s so easy to get caught up with what we believe other people think of us,” says Strong Women editor, Miranda Larbi.

“Are they judging our form? Do they think we don’t look fit enough? Might they be laughing at the way we run?

“Fundamentally, you’ll never know – but the key thing is this: at least you’re doing the damn thing.

“Do you really care what some bloke slouching in his car thinks of you, when you’re the one out exercising? And remember: no one in the gym is thinking about you at all.

“Once you realise this, it can be so freeing – and you’ll likely feel more motivated to take the plunge and crack on.”

“On those days when heading to the gym or going for a run sounds like the last thing I want to do, listening to an audiobook while I work out is an easy way to boost my motivation levels,” says Strong Women’s senior writer, Lauren Geall.

“Getting the chance to tune in to a compelling story or fascinating non-fiction title not only makes the experience more enjoyable but also stops my mind from wandering.

“It transforms those sessions in the gym or plodding the pavements into much-needed me time, so my body and mind both end up getting a boost.” 

“I always say that body confidence starts close to the skin – and there’s nothing like a good piece of kit to hack your way to instantly feeling invincible,” says Larbi.

“A decent sports bra is essential – please get fitted. If you want to run, get your gait analysed at a running shop – you can often do this for free – and get them to recommend a pair of shoes within your budget.

“And athleisure dopamine dressing truly does work: very often, I cycle in head-to-toe regal purple. It’s glorious.”

“It might sound a little cheesy, but setting aside some time to think about the reasons why you work out – and then writing them down in your phone’s Notes app – can be a great source of motivation when you’re feeling low,” says Geall.

“Whether you want to increase your cardiovascular capacity, improve your mental health or simply see what you’re capable of, having those reasons written down in an accessible place and referring back to them when you’re feeling unmotivated is a great way to remind yourself why you started your fitness journey and can give yourself the push you need to continue.” 

“The key to making a fitness regime stick is working out when you’re naturally more inclined to crave movement,” says Larbi.

“If you fall asleep at 11pm but keep forcing yourself to exercise at 6am, you’re probably going to crumble after a couple of weeks.

“Think about when you feel most energetic and try to schedule in movement around that period.

“Lunchtime fitness offers huge benefits for concentration, productivity and mood at work, while early morning exercise is amazing for those of us who find it easy to wake up and get going. Don’t force it – go with what works for you.” 

“Working out alone can be challenging on a good day, let alone when you’re feeling low on motivation, so finding a friend to work out with can be helpful,” says Geall.

“One thing I’ve always struggled with is staying consistent, but after joining a run club with my friend, I’ve found it much easier to get out there week after week.

“Not only do I have some good, old-fashioned peer pressure to thank, but it’s nice to know that we’ve now got regular catch-ups in the diary – which is no mean feat during hibernation season – while also getting some movement in.”