We all know that exercising and eating right is the key to weight loss as well as getting into the perfect shape. Exercise helps to keep the legs lean, tushes high and our tummies flat not to mention the rejuvenation and peace that comes with it. We also know that it is easier said than done. Unless you can afford a personal trainer, it is hard to wear the exercise gear daily and hit the road. What stops most people from sticking to their workout routine daily is the lack of motivation and why the following article outlines some ways you can keep yourself motivated to exercise long term.
- Positive thinking
Mindset is everything when it comes to exercising. It helps to switch off alarm and convince yourself that it is too cold outside, you might catch a cold but you also have a choice to feel delighted about the tremendous benefits you will gain from exercising, including changing your physique, losing weight, improving your mental health and physical function, as well reducing risk to chronic disease such as cancer diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Think more about these health benefits and you will certainly feel motivated to wake up early or even exercise in the evening when the sun is on your face.
Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right. – Henry Ford
- Remind Yourself Why
You know the reasons for your fitness goals, but sometimes you can forget and that absentmindedness can really cost you in the motivation stakes. Create a visual reminder for yourself, and make sure you can see it many times each day. For some it is a reminder of the sort of body they want to build, for others it is the things they will be able to do in their life, such as travel or playing with their kids.
Create a motivational image which encapsulates exactly what motivated you to start in the first place, it will help keep your motivation sky high.
Remember why you’re exercising! Image from http://thecanvasfactory.com.au/
- Consider the immediate gratification
Imagine the immediate effects that come with exercising even though it is just for a short while such as improved mood, stress reduction and a positive mental outlook. During exercise, the brain releases endorphins which reduces pain and induces a feeling of pleasure that one feels after a physical activity. When you connect these positive feeling with exercise, you will feel more motivated to exercise.
- Make exercise a priority
It is important to convince your body that exercise is a necessity that the body needs just like sleep, and food rather than telling yourself that it is an option. When you place a high value on exercise and associate with its many benefits, it will help you stick to the workout routine.
- Change your routine
After doing the same workout over and over again, the body adapts and you no longer makes any progress, also, the same routine leads to boredom. Avoid getting used to the same routine by mixing up with a variety of exercises to make it engaging and fun.
Look up for new exercises, join a group of friends, sign up for cross country or charity run or try a new exercise class for a few sessions. Incorporating this kind of adventure in your exercise will keep you motivated and looking forward to the next workout.
If your current exercise route gets boring, change it up. Go for a beach run! Image from https://au.pinterest.com/
- Set goals
Setting smart goals will help you focus and set a clear direction on what you would like to accomplish. Losing weight is too general, write down a more specific goal in your workout journal. For example I will be walking for 45 minutes on Monday-Wednesday at 6PM. This lays out a more defined plan for your workout and remember to reassess the goals regularly.
Also be honest with yourself if the goals you have set are not working out and maintain flexibility with your goals to help you stick to the exercise instead of dropping out.
The above tips will help you stay motivated and reap the tremendous benefits of an active lifestyle.
Brought to you by our friends at thecanvasfactory.com.au.
Tweet This Post