Failure to stay motivated to exercise is about the number one reason most people give up a workout routine. Besides being too busy or too tired, sticking with an exercise program becomes hard when doing the same thing day after day and week after week. It does take commitment in order to continue, so here are some of the best tips for staying motivated with a workout routine.
Make an Exercise Goal
Everyone needs a goal to work towards when it comes to a workout routine. Otherwise, it is easy to just stop when boredom sets in, with no feeling of having given up. However, make sure the goals are attainable. Setting goals too far out of reach (such as losing 20 pounds in 2 months) makes it hard to stay motivated enough to reach. Begin with baby steps or breaking up the goal into "mini" goals, and enjoy the accomplishment when each goal is met.
Track Progress Frequently
If results are not seen in regular intervals, the willpower to keep exercising will disappear. Consider keeping a fitness log to track progress. The log can include information such as:
- Current weight/desired weight
- Days worked out in a given week
- Calorie intake
- Calories burned
- Body measurements (thighs, chest, waist, etc.)
Another approach is to take a self picture every month or so to track changes in appearance. This is a great way to have a visual record of how well the program is working.
Join a Fitness Program or Fitness Club
It is much easier to stay motivated when joined by other people who have similar goals. There are online fitness programs like Weight Watchers or eDiets that can track progress records, give insightful tips for exercise programs, and allow members to interact with each other through forums or discussion boards. If this approach is not feasible, then grab a spouse or friend and head to the nearest fitness club. It is amazing how easy it is to focus on a workout routine when someone close is doing it, too.
Listen to Music
Music can provide just the inspiration you need to keep going. Today's gadgets make it easy clip on a music player, keeping hands free. There are also other things like audio books.
Do Something Fun
Not every workout will be fun. Planning something fun to do after a workout will give a person something to look forward to, making the workout easier to get through. Perhaps a trip to the mall or a low-calorie, low-fat frozen treat may be in order.
Hire a Trainer
There’s nothing like a trainer to keep a person working towards a goal. It is a trainer's job to help a person find the strength to keep going, and can be a good source of inspiration. Most fitness clubs charge extra for this service, but for the serious exerciser, this could do the trick.
Take a Break
Sometimes a person just needs a day or two off from exercising, and this is fine. The body sends signals when it needs a rest, and paying attention to these signals is important. Just be sure to go back to it as soon as possible. Over half of the people who take a few days off don’t go back to the exercise program. To reduce the chance of this happening, know ahead of time that this is just a temporary break.
Have a Reward
Nothing is better than reaching a goal and celebrating. It’s probably not a good idea to go out and splurge on dinner. But, do grab that new article of clothing that you have been eying in the store.
These are just a few of the ways to stay motivated when it comes to a workout routine. Different people have different motivators, but the important thing is to keep at it. In fact, exercising should be a lifelong goal to ensure optimal health. Just be sure to check with a doctor before beginning any routine to make sure the proper one is chosen.
Denise Oliveri - Denise has been writing for Suite101 for many years, and enjoys sharing her experiences and knowledge with readers. Her main occupation at ...
