5 Fitness Motivation Tips
We find motivation in different ways. What works for others may not work for you. Below is a short list of what works for me. Maybe it will provide you a little inspiration to think about what suits your personal style.
Reward Yourself – There is nothing I enjoy more than a reward! Did you run longer than ever before? Drop 5 pounds by eating healthy and exercising? Did you stay with a new routine slowly and consistently? Whatever goal you achieved, it’s o.k. to reward yourself. A new outfit, a day off, or even an ice cream cone can give you the motivation you need to keep going.
Music –When I’m feeling tired before a workout, I put on my favorite music and my energy is automatically renewed. Take some time to make a mix of your own. Need some inspiration? See my list of favorite songs below.
Have some fun! – I don’t know anyone who isn’t motivated by having a little (or a lot) of fun. Are you enjoying what you do for physical activity? If not, it’s time to try something new. Step out of your comfort zone and do something you enjoy!
Don’t go it alone – I’ve said this before and I’ll keep saying it. If you’re not motivated to be active alone, grab a friend or find a group of like-minded individuals to meet up with. You’ll find yourself motivated by the community and the sense of accountability.
The weather – During spring, summer and fall it’s easy for me stay active outside. Winter takes a little more work. I recently tried snowshoeing and loved it. Now I can stay active and have fun all year long! Bundle up during winter, and consider starting your day with even a 10 minute walk outside. The peace and quiet will get you started on the right foot.
What motivates you to exericse and stay active?
The most important motivation for me is actually enjoying the process - so having fun. Most people don’t take the trouble to explore that enough and so end up looking at exercise as a chore, gritting their teeth and getting it over with. They never keep it up. Instead they could be dancing or skating or swimming or whatever and getting a lot more out of keeping fit.
Thanks for your comment, Jan. I absolutely agree and it’s one of the things I teach clients. Fitness doesn’t have to be a chore. If you’re going to do something - have fun with it!