Have you ever started a fitness program and then quit? If you answered yes, you're not alone. Many people start fitness programs, but they may stop when they get bored, they don't enjoy it or results come too slowly. Here are tips to help you stay motivated.
1. Set goals
Start with simple goals and then progress to longer range goals. Remember to make your goals realistic and achievable. It's easy to get frustrated and give up if your goals are too ambitious.
For example, if you haven't exercised in a while, a short-term goal might be to join a class or start private personal training sessions 2 days a week. Even short amounts of exercise can have benefits. An intermediate goal might be to continue with group classes and/or personal training 2 times a week and add walking or biking 30 minutes on the days you do not go to the gym. A long-term goal might be to increase your gym attendance to 3 to 4 times a week.
For most healthy adults, the Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week, or a combination of moderate and vigorous activity. Greater amounts of exercise will provide even greater benefit. Aim to incorporate strength training exercises of all the major muscle groups into your fitness routine at least two times a week.
Most of my clients schedule workouts with me at least twice a week for strength, then use their bikes at home, run, walk, or belong to local gym for their days "off."
2. Make it fun
Find classes or activities that you enjoy, then vary the routine to keep it interesting. If you're not enjoying your workouts, try something different. Join a group. Take a dancing class. Check out a health club or martial arts center. Or take a walk or jog in a local park. Discover your hidden athletic talent or interests. Try to mix it up.
Remember, exercise doesn't have to be boring, and you're more likely to stick with a fitness program if you're having fun.
3. Make physical activity part of your daily routine
If it's hard to find time for exercise, don't fall back on excuses. Schedule workouts as you would any other important activity. (So important)
You can also slip in physical activity throughout the day. Take the stairs instead of the elevator, or park further away from the store. Walk up and down sidelines while watching the kids play sports. Take a walk during a break at work.
If you work from home, stretch, walk or climb your stairs on breaks. Or do squats, lunges or situps. Walk your dog if you have one. Pedal a stationary bike, walk or jog on a treadmill, or do strength training exercises during your lunch break or while you watch TV at night.
Research has found that sitting for long periods of time may negatively affect your health, even if you otherwise get the recommended amount of weekly activity. If you sit for several hours a day at work, aim to take regular breaks during the day to move, such as walking to get a drink of water or standing during phone conversations or video meetings.
4. Put it in Writing
Are you hoping to lose weight? Boost your energy? Sleep better? Manage a chronic condition? Write down your goals or post on social media. Seeing the benefits of regular exercise and writing your goals down on paper may help you stay motivated.
You may also find that it helps to keep an exercise diary. Record what you did during each exercise session, how long you exercised and how you felt afterward. Recording your efforts and tracking your progress can help you work toward your goals and remind you that you're making progress.
5. Join forces with friends, neighbors or others
You're not in this alone. Invite friends or co-workers to join you when you exercise or go on walks. Work out with your partner or other loved ones. Play soccer with your kids. Organize a group of neighbors to take fitness classes at the gym. Some of my most consistent clients text each other to push them to show up for class. A workout is always better and goes faster when you have someone to talk to.
6. Reward yourself
After each exercise session, take a few minutes to savor the good feelings that exercise gives you. This type of internal reward can help you make a long-term commitment to regular exercise. Many clients use their Apple Watch as a way to track their progress. Post it on social media. I love to see my clients proud of themselves and one another.
External rewards can help too. When you reach a longer range goal, treat yourself to a new pair of walking shoes or stretch pants to enjoy while you exercise.
7. Be flexible
If you're too busy to work out or simply don't feel up to it, take a day or two off. Go easy on yourself if you need a break. The important thing is to get back on track as soon as you can.
Now that you've regained your enthusiasm, get moving! Set your goals, make it fun and pat yourself on the back from time to time. Remember, physical activity is for life. Review these tips whenever you feel your motivation slipping.
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