Weight Loss and Motivation
It should be noted that the key to a successful exercise program is perseverance. This means that you need to commit to it for the long haul—in fact, it is best if you commit to it for the rest of your life. Certainly, it can be difficult at times. But in the end, it is well worth the effort you exert.
These tips will help keep you motivated
Have a tangible goal
Staying
motivated may begin with having a tangible goal. For instance, if you are
basically inactive when you start your program, you should aim to burn off 500
calories a week. If you are fairly active when you start exercising, your goal
should be 1,000 calories. But you must
also have a long-term goal. This might be doubling the amount of calories you
burn within six months of commencing your exercise program.
Start an exercise log
You might
consider starting an exercise log. Here, you will record exactly what kind of
aerobic, anaerobic, and stretching exercises you do each week. Be sure to include the number of repetitions
you’re performing with each exercise. This way, you’ll have a concrete chart
for your progress. Seeing how well you’re doing can be truly inspiring and can
keep you going when you find it difficult to go on.
Join a group
Another
effective motivational strategy is to join a group that engages in some kind of
exercise. For instance, you might become a mall-walker or you might find a
local square dance club to join. Other
possibilities include hiking groups, golfing groups, softball teams, or even
ping-pong teams. The fact that you are part of a social network will help to
keep you motivated.
Self motivation
You might
try psyching yourself out by using a computer screensaver which says, “Get
moving.” Or you might post a “get moving” sign on your refrigerator. In other words, you should be constantly
reminded of the value of exercise. You might also invest in home exercise
equipment such as a treadmill, elliptical trainer, or free weights. The amount
of money you spend could be a powerful incentive for making sure that you use
the equipment on a regular basis. You should also place the equipment in a
prominent place so that you have to pass it often. After a while, you’ll find
no excuse not to exercise.
Buy exercise videos
You might
also consider investing in exercise videos or DVDs. These allow you the
convenience of exercising in the privacy of your own home. They can also give you an electronic
“exercise buddy” who can help keep you inspired even on rainy days when you
don’t feel like exercising at all.
Use reminders
Another
effective idea is to place your athletic shoes near the door so that you are
reminded of the need to walk rather than drive.
Use rewards
You might also consider
rewarding yourself for keeping with your exercise program. Your reward could be
as elaborate as a cruise or as small as a treat from the dollar store. The idea
is to make sure that your accomplishment is celebrated.
And celebrate
While we’re
on the topic of celebration, seriously consider throwing a party once you’ve
reached an exercise milestone. You can serve nutritious snacks and beverages
and even encourage your guests to come in their athletic wear in order to build
upon the party’s theme. Sharing your
joy can help to motivate you to continue your physical activities.
It should
be said that there is no right way to exercise. But you do need to make sure
that whatever you do is effective and that you’re sufficiently motivated to do
it. By following just a few simple tips, you can ensure that your exercise
routine is not just a fad, that it will continue over the long term. Remember
that you may face setbacks from time to time, but that shouldn’t stop you from
continuing to try to reach your exercise goals.
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