Most people know that exercise is good for their health. After all, there are a multitude of reasons why we should be exercising, such as lowering the risk for and managing serious chronic conditions, attaining/maintaining a healthy weight, building muscle and bone strength and decreasing stress, to name a few. However, even with so many compelling reasons to exercise many people just can’t get themselves to do it on a regular basis.

There are many reasons why we might feel unmotivated to exercise. Maybe we had a negative experience in the past, or we feel intimidated by others who are in better shape then we are, or we’ve convinced ourselves that it’s just too hard to do. If you are currently leading a sedentary lifestyle,  the following words of wisdom may be just the boost you need. Even those of us who exercise regularly can benefit from these instrumental guidelines..

Valuable Life Practices

• Exercise for yourself, not to please someone else. Being healthy, feeling capable and enjoying your life are more important than looking or performing a certain way to gain acceptance from others.

• Be honest about where you are and set realistic goals. If you  haven’t exercised in a long time then start out with just 5 minutes and increase your time gradually.

• Don’t compare yourself to others. You are uniquely you, and you don’t have to be someone you’re not. We’ve all had different life experiences and we each have strengths and weaknesses. Stay focused on your own personal goals and honor your own timing and process.

• Don’t give up on yourself if you miss a workout or two. We’re human and some setbacks are inevitable. Give yourself some breathing room for dealing with the various dynamics of life. Just pick yourself up and get back on track as soon as you’re feeling better again.

• Make your workout as convenient as possible. Sign up for programs that are close to where you live. When you don’t have much time, then do a short workout at home. For example, consider taking a walk around your block, dancing to lively music in your living room or exercising to a segment of your favorite workout dvd.

• Do activities that you enjoy. Keep it fun and varied, so you don’t get bored. If you like to socialize, join a team sport or a group fitness class.

• Surround yourself with positive support and encouragement. Train with a knowledgeable coach, trainer or teacher who helps you to safely manage your workout and with whom you feel comfortable.

• When you’re resisting doing your usual program, consider splitting it up into 2 or 3 shorter segments to make it easier on yourself. For example, instead of doing one hour all at once, try doing three 20-minute sessions spread throughout the day. Research has shown that this can be just as beneficial!

• Acknowledge your progress along the way…every little bit. Consider keeping a fitness log to chart any improvements you notice, such as improved endurance or better flexibility.

• Reward yourself for your positive efforts with nurturing gifts or experiences that help you feel genuinely good now and later, such as a spa treatment, a fun trip or a movie. Also, practice experiencing your workout as a reward itself! If your exercise program doesn’t feel good to you, then either change your approach or find something else to do.

I’m Interested to Hear from You

Do you have a helpful motivation tip to share with others?  Whether you attend a class or takes walks around your neighborhood block, what rewards are you receiving from exercising? It would be awesome if you passed on your comments below so we could all benefit from them. Also, if you’re currently feeling stuck and are unmotivated to exercise, let us know what is keeping you from it. One thing for sure, I know you’re not alone. There are many others out there who feel the same way.