Ways to exercise more

What are the best ways to keep consistent with an exercise program, when motivation is lacking?

Public Comments

1. while working for a gym for the past year,I find that keeping a schedule and writing down the results help me stick to my program. If I can see both physicaly and mentally how im doing I cando it with more ease.. The more you see yourself improve,the more you will want to keep going.
2. pick things you can enjoy..for example dont start a plan that includes running 3 days a week if you dispise running ...likewise dont sign up for a busy gym if you are too shy or embarrassed to attend (i learned that the hard way, paid the fees for a good year, probably went once a month bc I am too shy for that when there are so many other younger girls and itsy bitsy teens)....and make sure you allow flexibility. I stick to all veggies/ fruit and have suppliments because I dont like (healthy) meat...but if I want a hamberger from Burger King even, I let myself do it. If you allow your self to spluge occasionally it will be easier to stick to...I am sure their is something psychological behind that. Also if it is just the exercise that you arent motivated to stick to try this: 1. Switch locations. I like to jog. Sometimes I go to the lake, sometimes on backroads, sometimes on bike paths... 2. Make it more fun by including someone in it. I take my two year old on bike rides, now she can't really hold me accountable but someone your own age could, Agree to workout (run, walk, whatever) every week or every afternoon...whatever fits. 3. Reward yourself. Lost a few pounds? Buy a new outfit to show it off. Stuck to your workout plans for an entire month straight? Do something just for you! 4. Dont give up, if all else fails at least remind yourself you will be a healthier person on the end and that in itself is a huge reward considering the cost of healthcare and the length of people's live- who wants to be 70 and bed ridden? You could still have a whole 20-30 more years left. MAke the most of life! :) good luck
3. Do it for yourself, not for anyone else. If you are working out to make someone else happy you will not keep up with it. Seeing progress motivates me so I took my digital camera, stripped down to my skivvies, in the privacy of my own home, and took pictures of myself - front, side and back views. I was shocked! I now have those pictures on my computer (in a private folder!) to remind me of what I REALLY look like and why I need to keep working out. I will take pictures again in a couple of weeks so I can see the changes, too. I also took my measurements and wrote them down so I will have a point of comparison. My husband thinks I'm nuts but having a way to chart my progress motivates me. Good luck!
4. Make sure you are well rested because if not, you won't want to do any much of anything. I would ask a friend that is into fitness, to work out with you so they can keep you motivated. Also, keep picturing yourself achieving your best body ever because of the exercises you doing. It helped me and I hope it helps you.