How To Stay Motivated To Exercise
Exercise has been a big part of my life for as long as I can remember. It has helped me through some very dark times. I exercise daily and use it for mental and physical health. I understand that only some people are naturally drawn to or motivated to exercise. Today I’m sharing three tips for getting started and staying motivated to exercise.
Tip #1: Have A Plan
My first tip for staying motivated to exercise is to have a plan. I’d suggest that anyone beginning a new exercise routine take time to pre-plan it. This tip is essential because if a person walks into a gym without a plan, especially as a beginner, they may wander around the gym, not knowing what to do, and end up frustrated and leaving.
You can do this by simply identifying which areas you want to focus on and listing exercises targeting that area. This includes writing down if you wish to improve your cardio, speed, and endurance. Research exercises that will help improve these areas. You can look online or even download an app to find ideas.
On Sundays, I plan all of my workouts for the week and put them on a calendar (or app). This helps me to stay on track and have time management in the morning because I know exactly what workout I’ve planned to do.
Tip #2: Do Something You Enjoy
My next tip is to do exercise that you enjoy. Exercise can be fun, and you should enjoy your exercise activities. There are so many different workouts to choose from that there is no reason a person should be stuck doing something they hate. I have seen it repeatedly; a person will say they don’t like exercising but find something they enjoy, and you can’t stop them.
If when you run, it hurts, and you hate it, don’t run. You will most likely give up your running routine very quickly. Instead, try different things until you find something you enjoy. Don’t feel like you have to be stuck in a box.
Tip #3: Have A Purpose
My final but most important tip is to have a purpose. Purpose creates passion; if you have a purpose for exercising, you will likely stick to it. Before you start your next workout, sit down and identify your purpose for working out. Is it to lose weight? Is it to get fit enough to run a race? Is it to fight a disease? These are examples of purpose, and reflecting on your purpose daily will motivate you to stick to your exercise routine.
I hope these tips are helpful; please share what motivates you to exercise in the comments.
