Getting Motivated to Move

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

30 Aug 2008 08:04 PM

After a long day at the office or at home running after kids and running a household how many of us really want to lace up our running shoes and hit the pavement? I would venture to guess that most people would prefer to prop up their feet on the couch than slip their tootsies into workout shoes.

That's where self-motivation comes in. People are motivated by different things. If you are trying to lose weight so you can fit into your wedding dress you might not mind going for a run after work. Or, maybe you are determined to lose 20 pounds before your high school reunion or you're trying to get in extra workouts because you want to fit into your pre-pregnancy jeans. Whatever the case may be it's important to identify what your goals are so you can create a fitness regime that will work best for you.

Of course, goals are not always enough to motivate people to stick with a workout routine. One way to cross this bridge is to choose something you enjoy doing and will be motivated enough to continue to do on a daily basis. Do you prefer biking to running or are you more comfortable roller blading or taking an aerobics class? Perhaps, you might benefit from a trainer or a friend, who is willing to get you out of bed on the days you want to throw in the towel.

Over the years I have found music to be a great motivator. Download your favorite tunes and listen to them as you workout. Or, find a motivational talk and add it to your iPod. I like to organize my music so that the most upbeat songs play right at the end of my 60-minute run--precisely the time when I need the most motivation.

If all else fails motivate yourself with a reward. It doesn't have to be expensive. Consider taking a long bubble bath as a reward for running 5 miles or give yourself a pedicure if you swim 10 laps. Whatever it takes to keep you moving.

Related Articles:

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How to Get Your Kids in Shape

Another Reason to Get Running

Why Too Much Exercise is a Bad Thing

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Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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