Motivation is the key to keeping up a routine of exercise. It improves health and well-being, helps with weight loss, boosts mood, improves sleep and strengthens the immune system. However, it’s not always easy to keep up with a fitness routine, especially when life gets in the way.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced exerciser, it’s natural to have days when motivation is low and you want to give up on your workout routine. But with the right tips, you can overcome these days and get back on track to your healthy lifestyle.
First, learn to differentiate between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation, or self-motivation, is based on a desire to engage in a behavior, usually because it makes you feel good. It’s also more sustainable than extrinsic motivation, which is often fleeting.
Second, make sure you’re setting goals that are specific and realistic. This is important for keeping your motivation levels up, as a goal that is too lofty will lead to boredom and demotivation.
Third, a great way to stay motivated is to surround yourself with things that inspire you. If you’re looking for inspiration, you can find it in all sorts of places, from your favorite fitness blogs to social media posts of your friends who are fit and healthy.
It’s also a great idea to keep a workout logbook or diary of your gym sessions, running times and swimming pool visits. This way, you can check your progress and motivate yourself to achieve even more!