You've heard the old saying that motivation wears off in the morning, so do you know how to get motivated to exercise? For many, the answer is no. Even after months of consistent exercise and an active lifestyle, the motivation wears off. Some people even give up because they feel stuck in a rut and don't see any point to keep going. The key, then, is to develop a plan or program and stick with it so you see results.
So how do you get started with an exercise program? The first step is to pick an activity that you enjoy. If your job provides exercise opportunities, then take advantage of those by signing up for a company fitness program. You may even find some employees who are willing to volunteer their time to work on your plan. If you have access to a gym or community center, talk to the manager or a member of staff about what you can do there.
If none of those things are available, consider getting started with your own exercise program. The motivation comes when you are starting to get results. That's why you need to be sure you're doing something physical. If you're bored or stressed from other activities, you won't get as much done and will likely procrastinate, which keeps you from seeing results faster. If you're physically tired from other things, you'll avoid getting started on your exercise regimen and may actually stop if you decide to do something else.
One way to get started with your exercise program is to make a goal for yourself. Set realistic goals for how long you hope to see results and think carefully about the health benefits associated with your chosen activity. It's also important to consult your doctor before beginning any new fitness program. He or she will be able to advise you about how to get motivated to exercise. You'll need to set a realistic goal and find time in your schedule to stick to it.
Another way to get motivated to exercise is to take part in something you enjoy. Exercise is one of the easiest ways to burn calories and stay fit. When you're having fun along the way, you generally are more likely to continue. Find something you love and join a fitness program - it will help motivate you to exercise.
Finally, if you are feeling the "down" side of exercise, don't beat yourself up about it. You're going through a hard time and probably feels down too. Just remember that all the hard work you've put in to working out will show in the results. And you'll have so much fun along the way that you'll be motivated to do more!