Written by Menswear Style in Health & Fitness on the 27th June 2017

Keeping up the motivation to go to the gym can be tough. With these movies, you can rediscover your enthusiasm for fitness, whether you’re a long-time fitness lover or an exercise newbie. Here we spoke to itcher to get their expert opinion on what the best movies are for fitness motivation.

Rocky (1976) 

Come on, we had to start with the workout montage that rules them all. With epic music and enough motivation to get you in the gym every day of the week, we think the soundtrack and the camera shots make Rocky one of the most motivating workout movies out there. Stick ‘Eye of the Tiger’ onto your gym playlist and feel that enthusiasm hit you. Watch Sylvester Stallone in action in this 1976 Best Picture Award winner.

Pumping Iron (1977) 

In this 1977 hit documentary, Pumping Iron takes a look at the golden age of bodybuilding. Arnold Schwarzenegger comes across (even at the age 28), as a consummate politician, smart, crafty and above all, likeable. The sheer extent of the bodybuilding efforts will be enough to get you to squeeze in one more workout this week.

The Karate Kid (1984)  

The Karate Kid teaches a lesson in laying down a solid foundation if you’re aiming for greatness. Which is a great lesson to learn, because there’s nothing glamorous about waking up at 6am and sweating your way through a workout. Daniel arrives in Los Angeles from the east coast and has some trouble fitting in. When he begins to be bullied, he asks Mr Miyagi, a master of martial arts, to teach him karate. In this movie, perseverance is key - just like in the gym.

Ali (2001)  

There’s no denying it - Ali was an athletic genius. With wit, charisma and a raging inner confidence, this biography shows us the life and triumph of Muhammad Ali. Fighting all comers, he took on the status quo, the war and the fists of his opponent. Perfect for continued motivation, this movie serves as an espresso shot for those wanting a boost in their fitness journey.

300 (2006)  

This is Sparta - and you’ll want to run to the gym when you see the state of the Leonidas’ physique. ‘300’ brings Frank Miller and Lynn Varley's graphic novel vividly to life. Gerard Butler exudes pure power and it’s contagious. A couple of hours with this movie and you’ll be ready to get pumped up in the gym. A word of warning - it’ll take a long time to get a body like one of these Greek kings.

Take your pick - any one of these movies will be the motivation you need. Pick your favourite, kick back and watch it, then pack your bag - we’ll see you in the gym.

We feature Pumping Iron (1977), Rocky (1976), Ali (2001), 300 (2006), and The Karate Kid (1984) in guide to 5 Movies Perfect for Workout Motivation.