Exercise motivation
THERE is no doubt, especially if you are no exercise fanatic, that you’ll need some motivation in order to work out, no matter what your fitness goals are. Many of us come up with a bunch of excuses — such as a hectic work and home schedule — as to why we can’t make time to work out, and it often takes an upcoming event, or the reality of not being able to fit in clothes, that sends us on a path to lose the pounds fast. But how do you get motivated even when there’s no carnival, no best friend’s wedding, no bikini party to get fit for?
Not to worry, Gisel Harrow, personal trainer and fitness expert at Hard End Factory, Ardenne Road, has a motivation starter-kit for you.
“Exercise is very beneficial in many ways; however, sometimes staying motivated can be challenging. Whatever your reason for starting a fitness programme may have been, always remember that the benefits of exercise will bring you complete wellness,” Harrow said.
Here are her recommendations:
Find a time that works with your schedule
No, you don’t get to simply give up on exercise because you have a busy day. Incorporate exercise in your day — walk to lunch; choose healthier meals; exercise while doing chores; don’t just watch the kids, play with them; walk when you have errands; and include or suggest more physical outdoor activities when planning with family and friends.
Create a new music playlist
There is nothing like good music to keep you going. The truth is, the rhythm of the music, especially if you have an upbeat playlist, will encourage you to keep going. Choose the music that you like, though, just don’t make it too soothing or you might be tempted to go and hit the bed instead.
Start a new workout programme
We all plateau, and reach that flatlining phase sometimes, and we get so bored that we become demotivated. But you don’t have to drop out of the exercise circle altogether. All you need to do is to change your game plan and start afresh.
Get a workout partner with similar interests
Whether it is your partner, your colleague, or a friend, get someone who has similar interests and who is ready to be fit and committed to their workout plan as much as or even more than you. You want someone who will be willing to push you when you are ready to give up, and who will engage you in a healthy workout competition to keep you motivated, and who is generally willing to support your workout journey.
Get a personal trainer
When you lose the oomph, then you definitely need a fitness trainer that will keep you on track. Fitness trainers will not stop, they will not allow you to throw in the towel and stop, and they will ensure that you stay true to your goal.
Pick a goal
Sometimes you need a goal in order to get your adrenaline running. It doesn’t have to be big or fancy, but the idea of looking good for an occasion can reignite the passion that you first had to exercise.
