Chris J. Dunn, MS, RCEP

Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist

10.  Vary your routine or change your scenery

A new variation on your favorite activity  walking at the beach instead of around the neighborhood  may be enough to reinvigorate a stale routine.  If you've always exercised indoors, move you workout outside for a welcome change of scenery.

 

9.  Try something entirely new

Especially something you never thought you'd do.  If you've always stuck to solitary pursuits, sign up for a group exercise class.  Or tackle something you've always shied away from, such as hiking.

8.  Find a workout buddy

Exercise companions add a social element to any routine.  Ask a friend to be your workout partner  you won't skip a workout if someone is waiting for you.

7.  Set a new goal

Working out to stay in shape is fine, but setting a goal, such as finishing a charity walk will give your daily workouts more meaning.

6.  Treat yourself to a workout gadget or accessory

Heart-rate monitors, aquatic toys, and other exercise gadgets can make your workouts more fun and challenging.

 

5.  Keep an exercise journal to track your progress          

Unsure if you're making progress towards your goals?  Then keep a workout journal, which allows you to keep track of your goals, monitor your progress, and adjust your routine as necessary.

4.  Don't berate yourself if you miss a workout

Life is full of obstacles, and unexpected appointments, illness, and setbacks are bound to happen sooner or later.  Don't let a few missed workouts turn into a month of unfulfilled resolutions.

3.  Reward yourself

Reaching a fitness goal or milestone is a great excuse to treat yourself to something new.  A massage, and evening out, or other "indulgence" may be the key to staying motivated.

2.  Focus on how good exercise makes you look and feel

You know that incredibly satisfied and healthy feeling you get immediately after a workout?  Remember it!  And use it to motivate yourself the next time you're thinking about skipping your next workout.

1.  If all else fails, take a break from exercise

Sometimes a lack of motivation is your body's way of telling you to take a break.  If anything hurts, or if your energy is running low, take a break for a few days before resuming your workouts.  A little mental and physical "R & R" may be just what your body needs to renew your motivation.