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Friday, January 09, 2009

What’s My Motivation?

About this time of year, thousands and thousands of people join health clubs. They promise themselves they will exercise, lose weight, get fit, etc. However, when it actually comes time to get down to it and exercise, they come up with a million excuses. The idea of exercise seems so great, but how come so many people just don’t do it?

I believe the most important factor in starting or continuing an exercise program is motivation. Some people have it and some people don’t. Where can you get it? Motivation is defined as “the set of reasons that determines one to engage in a particular behavior.” So to be successful you need to find YOUR reasons to exercise. Don’t start exercising because someone tells you that you need to lose weight, get fit, lower your cholesterol, etc. Do it for reasons that are meaningful to you and you’ll be more likely to stick with it. Create your own motivation!

I’ve come up with some things you can start doing today to help you find your motivation.

Set Goals. Have something you are working towards. You can choose a weight loss goal, a cholesterol goal or even a goal to compete in a marathon. Anything you are trying to accomplish will work as a goal. If you like, set more than one goal. Lose 20 pounds AND run a marathon. If goals that will happen at some point in the future aren’t working for you then set a small goal for today. Your goal could be to walk 20 minutes today and for the rest of the week and then to move up to 25 minutes next week. Just always have something to work towards.

Get Ready. If you want to exercise in the morning, wake up and put your work out clothes on. Grab your sneakers, have a snack and go exercise! If you exercise after work, pack your bag in the morning, leave work and go right to the gym. If you are exercising at home, put your DVD in, hit play, and don’t let yourself get distracted. If you procrastinate, you are less likely to do it.

Make it a habit. People who exercise consistently consider it a way of life or a habit. Try to think of it that way. Make it something you do on most days like brushing your teeth.

Get a friend. Working out with a friend can help you keep your commitment.

Find something you love. If you love Pilates, try variations of it. Try a core workout. If you are in New York or California try a Core Fusion or Physique 57 class. If you’re in South Florida try a Fusion Physique class. The Bar Method is a great workout in NJ or you can find good old fashioned aerobics at any gym near you.