How to Find Motivation to Exercise
By Sarah Dray
While you probably don't need motivation to go golfing as often as you can, working out on a regular basis may not be as appealing. Finding the motivation to exercise regularly might require some planning and organizing, especially if you've been inactive before or if you're trying to step up your routine.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderate
Understand your reasons for exercising. Take the time to examine why you want to exercise. Whether it is to lose weight, improve your upper body strength for a better swing or to help you battle stress, understanding your goals will help you get through difficult days when you feel like quitting.
Set up short-term goals. While your long-term goal may be to be in top shape to play the next golf championship in your state, that goal can become overwhelming. Instead, set a goal of working on your swing three times a week or going for a jog every day in the morning. Compartmentalizing, then accomplishing goals can boost motivation.
Promise yourself a reward if you stick to your routine for a certain amount of time. The rewards can be as simple as buying a book you want or paying for a day of pampering at the local spa. Or allow yourself a treat of your favorite dessert once you reach a goal. Knowing there's a reward waiting makes it easier to stick to your exercise routine.
Change your workouts often. One common reason people abandon their workout routines is boredom. Instead of doing the same cardio every day, mix a session at the gym with an afternoon of biking or a weekend of hiking. Or mix cardio boxing with yoga or Pilates classes.
Find an exercise buddy. You can do this online at web sites like ExerciseFriends.com or by asking friends or coworkers if they'd like to join you. A workout partner can help you pass through times of boredom and low motivation.
Scare yourself. If positive reinforcement doesn't work, research what lack of exercise can do to your body and your health. Inactive people are more likely to be overweight, suffer from heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. Being inactive also leads to a loss of muscle mass, which in turn causes a saggy, soft appearance.
Read success stories. Fitness magazines and web sites have tons of stories of people who lost large amounts of weight, change their appearance or health or became active in their lives. Read about what others went through and the benefits they achieved along the way.
About The Author
Sarah Dray has been writing since 1996. She specializes in health, wellness and travel topics and has credits in various publications, including "Woman's Day," "Marie Claire," "Adirondack Life" and "Self." She is also a seasoned independent traveler and a certified personal trainer and nutrition consultant. Dray is pursuing a criminal justice degree at Penn Foster College.
Photo Credits
sanja gjenero
