As a plus size personal trainer, I’ll admit it—I used to negotiate with myself like a seasoned lawyer when it came to exercising. The arguments went something like this:
- “You’ve been working so hard. You deserve to relax.”
- “But if I skip today, won’t it mess up my goals?”
- “Eh, let’s worry about that tomorrow… or never.”
Spoiler alert: My stubborn self usually won, and my sneakers stayed in the closet. Not exercising wasn’t just a loss for my body; it was a loss for the goals I genuinely cared about. That’s when I realized I needed to ditch the end-of-day workout plan and start owning my mornings.
If you’re anything like me, mornings might feel like they belong to coffee, email dread, and hitting snooze “just once more.” But trust me, as a plus size personal trainer, I’ve learned that changing up your morning routine can be the game-changer you need for a healthier, happier day.
Here’s how you can make it work—even if you’re not exactly a morning person. (Spoiler: I’m still not, but I get it done.)
1. Make Mornings About YOU First
Let’s be real: if you wait until the end of the day to exercise, life will find a way to interrupt. Work emergencies pop up, your favorite show releases a new episode, or that nap you didn’t plan just… happens. Starting your day with movement means you’ve prioritized yourself before the chaos takes over.
This isn’t about becoming a yoga-at-dawn guru. It’s about setting aside even 10 minutes to stretch, walk, or dance to Beyoncé in your living room. Yes, dance. Movement is movement, and if anyone judges your morning groove, just remind them it’s your party.
Plus, there’s science to back this up. Morning movement boosts your mood, metabolism, and energy for the entire day. Think of it like a reset button—no matter what happens later, you’ve already done something amazing for yourself.
As a plus size personal trainer, I’ve seen how this small change can make a huge impact on both energy and motivation.
2. Prep Like You’re Running for President
No, you don’t need campaign slogans, but prepping the night before can make all the difference. Lay out your workout clothes where you can’t miss them. Trust me, seeing leggings on your dresser can guilt-trip even the laziest version of yourself into action.
Set yourself up for success by removing any barriers. Got a favorite water bottle? Fill it and pop it in the fridge. Have a go-to playlist? Queue it up before bed. Anything that makes the morning smoother is worth doing.
And don’t forget the power of music. My favorite motivator? Songs that scream confidence and energy. Imagine heading into a “plus size personal training” session with Lizzo reminding you, “I’m my own soulmate.” Instant motivation.
3. Start With What Feels Good
When you think of “morning fitness challenge,” you might picture an influencer sprinting up a mountain at 5 a.m. Relax. You don’t need to channel Rocky to make your morning count.
As a plus size personal trainer, I always advise starting with what feels good. Maybe it’s a 5-minute walk, a light stretch, or one of the beginner-friendly routines from my Plus Size Weight Loss Fitness Program. The key is consistency over intensity. It’s not about crushing it every day; it’s about showing up.
Exercise for plus-size women isn’t about punishment. It’s about finding joy in movement, celebrating what your body can do, and showing yourself kindness. Start small and build from there. Over time, those small steps add up to something incredible.
4. Treat Yourself Like a Queen
Mornings aren’t punishment—they’re an opportunity to set the tone for the day. Celebrate small wins. Managed 15 minutes of exercise? Go you! Worked out two days in a row? You’re unstoppable!
As a plus size personal trainer, I love helping my clients celebrate every victory, no matter how small. Exercise isn’t about “fixing” your body; it’s about honoring it, moving it, and feeling good about what you’re capable of.
And don’t underestimate the power of rewards. Treat yourself to new workout leggings, a cute water bottle, or even just some quiet time with your favorite coffee. Positive reinforcement is powerful and keeps you motivated.
5. Create Accountability Without Judgment
Accountability can be the secret sauce to staying consistent. But it has to come from someone who gets it. That’s why I built a program specifically for plus-size women. It’s supportive, encouraging, and completely free of gym bros who think deadlifting is a personality trait.
Whether you work with a friend, join a group, or find a plus size personal trainer, accountability should uplift you, not shame you.
It can be as simple as checking in with someone or tracking your progress in a way that feels good to you.
6. Build a Morning Ritual You Love
Your morning routine should feel like a gift to yourself. Light a candle, stretch, journal, or sip your favorite tea before you lace up your sneakers. As a plus size personal trainer, I encourage clients to create rituals they look forward to—ones that make mornings enjoyable rather than a chore.
Remember, this isn’t about perfection. Some mornings, you’ll hit every goal; other mornings, rolling out of bed and stretching might be the win. Both are worth celebrating because both are progress.
7. Find Joy in Progress
Progress isn’t always about big leaps. Sometimes it’s about the little things: feeling less winded after a walk, noticing your energy last longer, or simply showing up for yourself.
As a plus size personal trainer, I remind my clients that fitness is a journey, not a destination. There’s no finish line where you suddenly “arrive.” It’s about learning to enjoy the process, celebrating the small wins, and letting go of perfectionism.
8. Surround Yourself With Encouragement
The people you surround yourself with can make or break your journey. That’s why community is so important. Being part of a group that understands your challenges and celebrates your victories can make all the difference.
If you’re tired of going it alone or need a program tailored for you, I’m here to help. As a plus size personal trainer, I’ve designed the Curvy Goddess Renewal Program to provide the encouragement, support, and resources you need to succeed.
What’s the Next Step?
Start small. Show up. Laugh at yourself when your workout leggings end up inside out (been there). And if you’re ready to level up your mornings and make fitness a sustainable habit, join me—a plus size personal trainer—in the Curvy Goddess Renewal Program.
Together, we’ll create routines that work for your body and your life. Mornings don’t have to be dreaded.