How to stay motivated… especially in this cold!

The righteousness of new year's resolutions are fading and Mother Nature has ramped up the chill factor with no regard for our precarious grip on a regular exercise routine. We want to be fitter, but going anywhere in this weather—no matter the reason—can be a hard sell.

Below I’ll share some of the tips and principles I’ve learnt along the way. I strongly believe these habit builders can be the difference between good intentions and real, lasting results.

Start with a plan. Take a minute to jot down your fitness goals. Read the list back and memorize each goal. Display them in an attention grabbing spot—maybe beside your bed, in your office or on the bathroom wall—and read them whenever you have a chance.

Schedule workouts. Your workout is just as important as a business meeting, so treat it like one. Block out the time in your calendar then mentally check each workout off as you complete it.

Find support. Find a workout buddy or go to an exercise class. Planning a routine with like-minded people helps keep you honest and focused. Tell friends and family about your fitness program and they can provide support too.

Enjoy yourself. Getting into the habit of exercising regularly and enjoying yourself is more important than forcing yourself to conform to a certain mode of exercise. Which is more effective, the super high-intensity lifting program you do for two weeks or an enjoyable mix of sport, group exercise and light jogging that you stick to? Short-term change will only yield short-term benefits. Focus on creating a program you can see yourself doing this time next year.

Avoid the “all or nothing”. Don’t demand too much of yourself in an effort to get “there” more quickly. Think of fitness as an on-going process. If things get hectic remember that any exercise is better than none and if things are really crazy it’s alright to miss a workout. Don’t get down on yourself over things you can’t control, just schedule a date to get in and have a great workout next time!



Comments

[Lorenz]

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