It's often far too easy to find excuses not to get active. By saying we are too busy, too broke or too self-conscious to exercise, we can all justify a lack of physical activity. Finding the motivation to get active can indeed to be tough, but as things get easier and we reap the benefits, there are plenty of incentives to continue.
Finding Motivation
The scales
can be a good indicator of weight loss but it can also be soul destroying to
step aboard merrily only to find a disappointing result. Likewise, it's easy to
rely too much on what the scales say and use them as an excuse to give up. If
you don't like the numbers, find a new way to measure success, such as trying
on a favourite item of clothing regularly. As those jeans begin to fit better,
the results of exercise are more obvious.
A new
exercise regime can seem daunting if you think about how much you need to lose
to reach your target, so instead focus on mini-goals to make things more
achievable. Go for a walk, sign up to a class that grabs your attention or
perhaps make small dietary changes gradually.
Seeing Results
A negative
attitude can play havoc with attempts to get fit, so to get the most out of
exercise it can help to look at it in a positive light. Don't dread pounding
away on the treadmill but instead use it as an opportunity to claw back some
precious 'me time' and think of the end result to stay motivated.
If you really
hate the idea of group activity, there are plenty of activities which can be
done at home, such as using a step machine or exercising via computer games.
Each chunk of activity burns calories and helps improve fitness levels,
regardless of the environment.
If a
home-based routine gets boring, or you require more of a challenge, try mixing
it up by trying something new or getting out and about instead. A change of
scenery can do wonders for motivation levels.
The gym may
seem unappealing, but many are friendly and sociable places and if yours is a
little competitive or intimidating, search around or seek recommendations to
find somewhere ideal. With so many fitness
jobs available, you might even find that achieving your ultimate goals can
lead to a new career!
Although
solitary exercise can have the desired effects, socialising will make any
activity seem less like exercise and by committing to an activity with a friend
you both have an important role in raising each others spirits when things get
tough or you reach a plateau.
Try to keep
things fresh by varying workouts and trying new activities that appeal. When
the weather is good make the most of the great outdoors and when it is
miserable outside take comfort from exercising somewhere warm and dry. Variety
is the spice of life and can make all the difference when it comes to seeing good results.
Losing weight
and getting fit can seem like a slow process, so constantly reward yourself for
any progress made. It can also help to set new goals and challenges when things
seem a little stale and to remind yourself of why you embarked on this journey
in the first place.
Zoe is an avid health blogger and freelance writer
from Cheshire in the UK. She loves to vary her exercise routine by attending
fitness classes in between long walks with friends and family. Currently, Zoe
is writing for healthcare charity Nuffield
Health’s career site. Tweet your
thoughts on this article to @bloggingstyle.
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