When it comes to fitness, though it’s easy to start off strong, it’s even easier to slowly fall off the workout wagon. All it takes is one little excuse to derail your routine and stall your efforts. And with summer so close we can practically taste it, staying in shape should be at the very top of our to do lists.

With that in mind, here are my top tips on how I stay motivated.

Pencil in your workouts: Instead of just telling yourself you’re going to hit the gym either before or after work, make a point to schedule it into your life. If it’s in your diary, in your phone, or on your computer, it’s easier to stick to your plan. I always try on a Sunday to make sure I have at least 3 sessions organized for the week ahead and work the rest of my day around it!

Grab a friend: Make your gym session a social session. Enlist a friend, boyfriend, family member, or anyone who can help you stay committed. Plus research suggests that working out with a partner can help you lose more weight than going it alone. I love working out with my gym buddy Lisa, it really helps to keep me focused and working towards my goals.

Try something new: Whether you’re an elliptical queen or a running machine, sticking to one type of workout I have found in the past is an easy way to slow down your results and get bored — fast. I have been going to a personal trainer for the past 6 months and find that mixing it up each session is working really well for me so what id suggest is to try strength training one day, slipping into a group fitness class the next, and so on. It’s important to keep your mind and body challenged, by switching things up at the gym, you’ll continue to see improvement and avoid a fitness plateau—results are always motivating!

Track your progress: If there’s one thing that’s all about progress, it’s fitness. Whether you’re looking to lose some weight, training for an event, or just feel better, you work towards milestones—and keeping track of the work it takes (and the achievements you accomplish) to reach them could help keep you accountable and motivated. Luckily, thanks to the many apps and gadgets that are available, it’s easier than ever to log the miles you’ve run, the reps you’ve completed, and basically any component of your fitness routine.

Turn up the tunes: Think of your playlist as a way to fuel your workout and your drive. I personally find that upbeat music inspires me to get to the gym and when there makes me work out harder and stronger.

Try a shorter workout: Tight for time? That’s just an excuse; you can still squeeze in a session, even if it’s just a 15-minute one. A quick workout can still help you stay fit and on track. Interval training is a brilliant way of burning calories and improving your overall cardiovascular fitness and the best part is that you can do it at home.

Rest easy: Working out 7 days a week isn’t really an option for me nor does it interest me. In fact, they say that overtraining can lead to burnout, injuries and even anxiety. Your body needs time to recover, and doing so can help keep you on track. Just as you would schedule your workouts, make a point to pencil in at least two rest days. Consider your rest days the perfect excuse to book a massage, do some light stretching, or just kick back and relax.