Extra Motivation
Do you think you need extra motivation for working out, getting off the sofa or finding a place to workout? Read our simple tips and start getting motivated to get fit and stay fit!
If you’re working out at home, watching the TV is a great way to make the time pass more quickly.
Research has shown that listening to music while you workout can help you to work harder and enjoy your workout more. If you don't like the music they play at your gym, take your personal stereo with you.
Placing a special picture, note or object where it will remind you of your goals is another great motivator – it can be anything that works for you – a photo of where you’ll go for a holiday once you’ve lost the weight, a new dress you’ll buy, whatever helps motivate you to succeed.
You get up, you dress, you eat, you go to work, you exercise. Making your workouts a scheduled part of your life, rather than an afterthought that you squeeze in if you have the time, is a sure way to achieve success.
Procrastination is the enemy! Make a list of all the reasons why you need to start working out today – then do it!
If you miss a workout, don’t stress out – it happens. Simply jump back into your program the next day. If you find yourself regularly missing workouts, then take the time to analyze why – are your goals unrealistic? Are the times inconvenient? Have you chosen activities you really don’t enjoy? Sometimes a simple change is all it takes to get you back on track.
Every little helps – research shows that three ten minute walks is as effective as one thirty minute walk. So even if you don’t have time for an hour’s workout at the end of the day, you can find ways to fit things in throughout the day – walk a bit on the way to work, always use the stairs, and go to the gym as often as you can. Sure the ideal is to go at least three times per week, but going twice a week is infinitely better than not going at all.
Variety in your fitness program not only makes it more fun, it also works the body harder, so you progress faster. Do a variety of workouts, and if you’re lifting weights, be sure to change your program around at least every six weeks.
If you are buying equipment, take the time, effort, and money to get the best you can. It will be more comfortable, work better, and last longer. Plus, you’ll be much more motivated to use the top of the range £800 rower than the £20 one from Argos!
People who care about you will help support your goals – involve them, telling them what they can do to help. The more people there are who know about your goals, the more likely you are to stay motivated.
If you're got this far, you’re clearly highly motivated. All you need to do now is make it happen!
