Get Motivated to Workout

Everyone is motivated by different things. Finding your workout motivation can make the difference between success and failure. Here are some tips to find your workout motivation.

Before and After

Are you someone who is motivated by what you see? Try taking “before” pictures and pictures as you progress. Don’t take them too often – you won’t see a change in your physical appearance right away – but try taking a set of pictures every week. Then you can look at them in sequence and appreciate your progress.

Exercise Loves Company

Some people find that having a workout buddy helps them stay motivated. Having someone to work out with makes workouts more fun – it’s social time for you and your friend. A workout partner can be your greatest fan, too, cheering you on and giving you encouragement as you need it. Also, a workout partner can hold you accountable if you are not keeping up with your commitments. And since it’s a partnership, you can return the favors.

A New Look at Goals

Everyone tells you to set goals to stay motivated. But this may not be enough to get you motivated since you have heard it all before. Try taking a new look at goals. Rather than just writing down your ideal weight or clothing size, get creative and individualize your goals.

For example, you might want to run a local marathon or participate in a walk-a-thon for charity. Maybe you want to keep up with your children on your next outing, or want to do more active things with your family. Making your goals personal may help you stay motivated.

Document

Have fun documenting your progress. Keep a scrapbook with photos, articles, and personal notes. Find some fun and motivational quotes for your scrapbook, or keep a journal that documents your workout experience.

Make It Personal

One way to make it difficult to stick with your workout routine is to choose a routine you dislike. It’s understandable that working out is, in fact, work – it can get difficult. But if you choose an activity you enjoy to get in shape, you are more likely to stick to it.

For example, if you want to take up regular walking, you might enjoy hiking in the woods or walking in the neighborhood rather than around and around a track. The same goes for jogging, running, or bicycling – doing these things on machines in the gym may not be your cup of tea. But a bike ride in a park or jogging on a hiking trail might entice you more.