Get Motivated
Top tips to get you motivated
When it's rainy and grey outdoors, or when you're feeling a bit jaded, your fitness routine is the first thing to get chucked off the 'to do' list. What's the trick to staying keen? Follow these simple steps to stick to the programme
Start safely
Check with your GP before trying a new exercise routine so you don't attempt anything that's unsafe or beyond your capabilities.
Also, take time to get proper instruction on different types of exercise and encourage a friend or family member to join you to ensure a more relaxed environment.
Choose a workout you enjoy
Slogging away on the treadmill is torture if you'd rather be strolling outdoors or doing an althogether more engaging activity. It's crucial to make exercise something you like doing, otherwise you'll dread getting round to it.
Set realistic goals
If you're not clear about how and why you want to get fit, you're unlikely to stick to a routine. Having clear objectives and a challenging, yet achievable goal will motivate you to keep going.
Reward yourself
There's no better way to sustain your motivation to get fit than immediate gratification.
So, when you reach the halfway point of your goal, treat yourself to something like a nice dinner out or that new handbag you've had your eye on. Share your accomplishment with family and friends, as acknowledgement of success will inspire you to further press on towards your goal.
Fit in fitness whenever possible
Did you know that six five-minute spurts of exercise can be just as beneficial as one 30-minute workout?
That means it's fine if you can't do your workout all in one go - just break up exercise throughout the day. One way of doing this would be to use the Nintendo Wii Fit, which allows you to dip in and out of a fun-filled fitness routine while maintaining a serious objective.
Take it one day at a time
The more gradually you take on an exercise plan, the more likely you are to achieve your goals. Your body will adjust better if you start slowly, and you'll get stronger without injuring yourself.
Vary your fitness activity
Engaging in various forms of exercise is the key to a balanced, fit body. Try yoga, strength training, aerobics and balance exercises in equal measure in order to achieve an all-round fitness objective.
Skip a day
Exercise obsession is as bad as none at all because it's physically and mentally counterproductive.
Allowing your muscles to rest and rejuvenate is a crucial part of being healthy and achieving maximum results.
And giving yourself a mental break prevents burn-out and makes you more likely to stick to a long-term exercise plan. Listen to your body and if you're having an off-day, take it easy and rest.
Delicious
Digg
reddit
Facebook
StumbleUpon
