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Tuesday, 07 June 2011 23:29

Staying Motivated To Exercise

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People often ask me how I keep myself motivated to exercise.  It is not always easy, but here are a couple of pointers that have helped me over the years.

Plan a workout with a friend, family member, or a coworker.  By adding this level of accountability, you will be less able to procrastinate your workout.  If someone is counting on you to be at a specific location at a particular time, you simply have to be there.

Focus on how magnificent you will feel at the end of your workout.  You will undoubtedly feel better at the end of the workout than when you began.  The sense of accomplishment will boost your self-esteem, and you will have endorphins running through your body, which will also make you feel good.

Do something you enjoy.  If you enjoy the activity, you will be more likely to continue doing it.  Exercise should be a combination of both hard work and fun.

Mix it up.  Muscle confusion is an effective way to keep your workout from becoming stagnant.  If you do a variety of different activities, your body will continue to see results.  By cross-training different muscle groups, you will also decrease your chance of an injury from over use.

Keep track of your progress and reward yourself.  As you begin to see improvements in your strength and overall fitness, acknowledge the result and reward yourself.  It does not have to be anything expensive or even monetary, just feel proud for a moment, and thank yourself.

Set Goals and reach for them.  If you are a runner, sign up for a race.  If you want to improve your core strength, aim for a three-minute plank hold.  By focusing on the end goal, the daily workout routine becomes less mundane.

Try something new.  Sometimes it is fun to do something outside of your comfort zone.  You might find a new skill, or meet some new friends.  By trying new things, your workout will be anything but boring.

Plan exercise into your day.  Many people say they do not have time for exercise.  If you add it to your calendar, just like a meeting or regular appointment you will likely make it happen.

Get outside.  Not all exercise has take place at the gym.  Take a walk or a hike.  By focusing on the beauty of nature, it might not feel like a workout at all.

Think of your future.  Studies have shown that regular exercise can improve the quality of your life as well as add years to it.  It will be amazing to have continued independence and your health through the years.  Keep it up and the sky is the limit!

 

Last modified on Wednesday, 20 July 2011 17:59
Stacey Reardon

Stacey Reardon

Stacey Reardon is a lifetime resident of Salt Lake City, and is currently enrolled in the BBA program at Westminster College.  She believes that remaining active, and engaged are instrumental to living a rich, fulfilling life.  Aside from college, Stacy makes time for yoga, pilates, weight training, and cycling to stay in shape and remain strong and healthy.  She is also working to become a certified spin instructor.  Stacy is an avid runner and has trained for, and completed in four marathons, three half marathons and has been a participant in the Ragnar Relay twice.  When she's not running, exercising, or studying, you'll find her engrossed in her other passions in life:  writing, painting, and just enjoying free time with good friends, and family.

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