A motivational talk or an inspiring workout video can often get our adrenaline rushing and motivate us with easy exercise tips. Within no time, we decide that we want to start running the way we saw in the video. We buy the best attire, the most comfortable shoes and the most advertised exercising accessories.
We set the alarm for 5:30 am; and as the alarm goes off, we quickly prepare a list of convincing excuses in our mind, to postpone the exercise to tomorrow. But, tomorrow never comes! We again retract to our comfortable shells, brushing off the guilt and continuing to be physically inactive!
This lack of fitness can take a toll on your immune system. It is imperative that without wasting any more time, you get moving and begin your fitness journey. But how, and where to start working out?
If you are not motivated enough to reap the exercise benefits, here are a few motivation hacks to keep you on track:
1. Start with setting a goal
Take some time to understand your motivation for exercise. Is it to look good? Feel fit? Improve general wellness?
Figure out a timeline for reaching your target. Set achievable fitness goals. Preferably, write down your fitness goals somewhere you can see it daily. This can help serve as a reminder whenever you feel demotivated.
2. Build up slowly
The most common mistakes made by beginners is doing too much and exerting themselves when beginning exercise. This can make you feel very tired and your body will ache due to not being accustomed to exercise. You can avoid this by slowly building up to your desired workout goals.
Instead of doing 50 repetitions on the first day do 5. Progressively increase the intensity so you can maintain your resolve.
3. Our bodies love routine
Decide the exercises you want to incorporate or what part of your body you want to focus on for a particular day. Try to make the spacing between your workouts regular. But remember, it's okay to be flexible.
4. Keep track of your journey
Keep tabs of your progress - you can journal, take pictures or even get an app on your phone for tracking your fitness progress. Don't expect instant results, day to day. However, you would be surprised when you see the progress over time. This is a great motivator and can help you keep up the good work when you feel like quitting.
5. Shun the boring, do fun things
Working out does not have to feel like a punishment. Include activities you find fun. If the gym is not for you, you can try kick boxing, skipping, swimming or yoga.
If that doesn't work either, you could enrol for dance classes, take up a sport, or something that you enjoy. This will help you stay on track. You can also look for tips for exercise online.
6. It takes two to tango!
Exercising alone is not for everyone. Involve and invite your friends to workout with you and share your exercise goals. Your peers can keep you accountable and on track on your fitness progress and you can do the same for them.
7. Reward yourself
Reward yourself for sticking to the goals. This can act as an incentive for adherence to your regimen through positive reinforcement.
These rewards for exercising can range from a good lunch, a nice item of clothing or even a chocolate bar -whatever motivates you!
8. Resting is important too!
You're bound to feel tired on some days, account for this while planning. Make sure you have enough room in your plan for a few rest days. These are very beneficial for your mental and physical wellbeing. When you are well-rested, you are able to perform better.
On your rest days allow yourself to sleep in, read a book, play games and even go for a casual stroll.
9. A positive frame of mind may help!
Engage in positive self-talk, remember your goals and cheer for yourself. Chant positive affirmations and encouraging words to yourself. Even on days when you are unable to work out don't let yourself dwell in negativity.
You can find and save your favorite quotes on your phone and look through them on days when spirits are low.
10. Find inspiration!
It can be valuable to find a role model, who has achieved what you are trying to achieve. On the days when you need a little extra motivation to get through your workout, you can scroll through social media fitness influencers, athletes and professional fitness trainers for inspiration.
Do take care to not be disheartened or compare your body with other people, fitness can look different for everyone. Instead, renew your work ethic and stay on focus.
Conclusion
Keeping up your fitness mojo is no mean task. It is easy to feel demotivated, particularly if you don't see instant results. The trick here is to not get disheartened, and instead, keep on the fitness journey, with the greater goal in sight. Following the above easy exercise tips will help you stick with your workout routine and help to maintain your immune system. With these tips in your arsenal, you can easily tackle your monsters of demotivation and renew your sense of purpose.
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