Healthy Lifestyle

Sometimes, no matter how dedicated we are, we begin to lose our motivation for exercise. Before you talk yourself into foregoing your workout routine, read these helpful hints to get you back on the Exercise Express.

1. Write down all of the benefits of exercising. You know, like a healthy heart, stronger lungs, and increased flexibility.

2. With pen in hand, jot down all of the reasons you want the benefits of exercise in your own personal life. To turn heads when you walk into a room, to have more energy to play with your children, to participate in a marathon, or to feel comfortable in a swimsuit, write down as many things as you can think of. This is an incredibly motivating task.

3. Keep a daily journal. You would be surprised at how much inspirational motivation you can reap from maintaining a journal. It’s very uplifting to read your journal and see how far you’ve come. Use it everyday to set your goals and encourage yourself for success.

4. Exercise first thing in the morning. If you go out for a 30-minute walk in the morning, then you have the rest of the day for your other responsibilities. You will feel a certain amount of confidence throughout your day for having already exercised. Any additional activities or exercises you do later in the day will be an added bonus to your fitness program.

5. Reward yourself. It might be time for a little shopping spree. A new blouse or a new pair of jeans is a great way to keep you motivated. Don’t give in and buy a bigger size, though.

6. Find a friend to exercise with. It might be time to enlist a like-minded person to help you stay motivated. Between co-workers, neighbors, family or friends—there is sure to be somebody you know who would enjoy your company and make exercise less mundane and boring.

7. Listen to music while you exercise. If you already have a portable player of some sort, you might get more motivated with some new tunes. Choose music that makes you want to move!

8. Get new shoes. If hurting feet are making you sore—you may need a new pair of shoes. Feet and leg strains can put a damper on our workouts, causing us to shy away from exercising. Plus new shoes can put a spring in your step, helping to make exercise more enjoyable.

9. Train for a local 5k or even 3k run/walk in your community. Sign up for it and then commit yourself to training. You won’t want to be the last one in on race day, so keep a winner’s spirit in mind to keep you on track.

10. Start each day with an affirmation. Yesterday is gone, but today I will start anew. I have proved myself successful in the past. I can do great things today.