| Staying Motivated to Exercise |
 Starting to exercise is the easiest thing to do, however to do it regularly is one of the hardest part. Although it is difficult to predict who will be an exercise dropout, about half can be expected to drop out within the first six months to a year of starting an exercise regime. Even people who would seem to have compelling reasons for sticking with it drop out. The most important step when starting an exercise program is to set realistic, attainable goals. If you are out of shape, do not try to run several kilometers or swim 50 laps in the first week or two. You are also better off concentrating on time and not on distance. Research has found out that runners who aim for 30 minutes during exercise session are more likely to keep running than those who go for distance. There is also a correlation between the intensity of the exercise and the propensity to give up. Far too often, people think that pushing themselves hard will accomplish the most. But unless you are training for competition, that is not the case. The higher the intensity of your exercise, the more quickly fatigue sets in – forcing you to stop short of your goal, which in turn make you injury prone. You can increase your motivation to exercise with the following techniques: 1. Find the Right Time Some people discover that exercising early in the day supplies them with energy throughout the morning. For others an after-work lap in the pool or a jog releases the days stress and tension. If your leisure time is short you can walk or cycle to and from work. 2. Monitor your Progress Keeping a chart of how often you exercise and of the time that has elapsed, or distance run/ walked or laps completed makes your achievement tangible and reinforces the feeling of personal achievement. 3. Vary your Exercise Routine Change your walking routes, try a different swimming style, or do a different exercise in your gymnastics class. Vary your workout routines, if you enjoy jogging, intersperse your jog with a short sprint. Remember variety is the spice of life, and this applies to an exercise regime as well. 4. Get Support Recruit support from your family and friends for staying with the exercise program. Researchers have observed, having a buddy during workouts reduces dropouts and motivates all. In one study, people with spouse who actively supported their exercise regimen were twice as likely to keep going as those whose spouses were non-supportive. Overall it has been observed that people who exercise in groups form an emotional bond with the group and are less likely to give up than those who exercise alone. 5. Do not worry if you miss a session or two Do not worry if you miss a session or two, or if you do not consistently meet the time or distance goals you have set for yourself. Do not use these as an excuse to quit exercising, just keep going. |
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