Staying Motivated in the Gym and Maintaining Healthy Eating Habits During Times of Stress
- Brainz Magazine
- Feb 24
- 3 min read
Written by Josh Grimm, Fitness and Mindfulness Coach
Josh Grimm is an industry leading fitness and mindfulness coach. He is the founder of FITNUT, based in New York City, offering in person and online coaching, global wellness retreats, podcasts, and seminars.
Life is unpredictable, and during stressful or uncertain times, it’s easy to let go of healthy habits, skip workouts, and reach for comfort foods. However, staying consistent with your fitness routine and maintaining proper nutrition can provide structure, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. Here are some practical ways to stay motivated and on track.
Set realistic goals and adjust expectations
When facing uncertainty, your usual fitness and nutrition goals may feel overwhelming. Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on realistic, short-term goals that keep you moving forward. This could mean committing to three workouts per week instead of five, or simply aiming to make healthier food choices 4-5 days per week.
Create a flexible workout routine
When life feels chaotic, rigid workout schedules can add more stress. Instead, allow yourself some flexibility. If you’re short on time or energy, opt for a shorter, high-intensity session or a simple mobility workout. The key is to stay active in any way that feels good.
Find joy in your workouts
Exercise shouldn’t feel like a chore. If your current routine feels monotonous, mix things up! Try a new fitness class, experiment with different workout styles, or set a fun challenge for yourself. Movement should be something you enjoy, not something you dread.
Focus on stress-reducing activities
Exercise and healthy eating aren’t just about physical fitness; they’re also powerful tools for managing stress. Practices like yoga, deep breathing, and mindful movement can help you stay grounded during uncertain times.
Plan and prepare healthy meals in advance
During stressful times, reaching for convenient but unhealthy foods is tempting. Meal prepping can help you stay on track without added stress. Prepare simple, nutritious meals that are easy to grab when life gets hectic.
Prioritize recovery and sleep
Lack of sleep and chronic stress can lead to fatigue, making it harder to stay motivated. Quality rest and recovery are just as important as exercise and nutrition.
Stay connected and find support
Surrounding yourself with a supportive community can make a big difference. Whether it’s a workout buddy, an online fitness group, or a coach, having accountability can keep you motivated.
Practice self-compassion
Not every day will be perfect, and that’s okay. Instead of beating yourself up over a missed workout or an unhealthy meal, focus on what you can do next. Consistency over time is what truly matters.
Uncertainty and stress are inevitable, but your fitness and nutrition habits can be your anchor during tough times. By setting realistic goals, staying flexible, and prioritizing self-care, you can maintain motivation and continue working toward a healthier, stronger you.
Josh Grimm, Fitness and Mindfulness Coach
Josh Grimm offers a unique combination of fitness and mindfulness coaching through his brand, FITNUT, which he started in 2014 after spending a length of time in South East Asia and then returning home to New York City. His holistic approach of curating a culmination of physical and mental fitness training via one on one coaching, an online multi-use platform, podcasts, seminars, and global wellness retreats, bring together a community that wants to live their ideal mindset through optimal physical and mental health.
