Staying Motivated: An Important Factor in Weight Loss

If you are attempting to fight fat, it is simply not enough to
begin an exercise program. You must also be able to stick with
it. This can be challenging, especially if you have spent most
of your life as a couch potato. You may find exercise to be
boring or a chore. And you may be wondering whether your
exercise program is really worth the effort.

It should be noted that the key to a successful exercise
program is perseverance. This means that you need to commit to
it for the long haul–in fact, it is best if you commit to it
for the rest of your life. Certainly, it can be difficult at
times. But in the end, it is well worth the effort you exert.

Staying motivated may begin with having a tangible goal. For
instance, if you are basically inactive when you start your
program, you should aim to burn off 500 calories a week. If you
are fairly active when you start exercising, your goal should be
1,000 calories. But you must also have a long-term goal. This
might be doubling the amount of calories you burn within six
months of commencing your exercise program.

You might consider starting an exercise log. Here, you will
record exactly what kind of aerobic, anaerobic, and stretching
exercises you do each week. Be sure to include the number of
repetitions you’re performing with each exercise. This way,
you’ll have a concrete chart for your progress. Seeing how well
you’re doing can be truly inspiring and can keep you going when
you find it difficult to go on.

Another effective motivational strategy is to join a group that
engages in some kind of exercise. For instance, you might become
a mall-walker or you might find a local square dance club to
join. Other possibilities include hiking groups, golfing groups,
softball teams, or even ping-pong teams. The fact that you are
part of a social network will help to keep you motivated.

You might try psyching yourself out by using a computer
screensaver which says, “Get moving.” Or you might post a “get
moving” sign on your refrigerator. In other words, you should be
constantly reminded of the value of exercise. You might also
invest in home exercise equipment such as a treadmill,
elliptical trainer, or free weights. The amount of money you
spend could be a powerful incentive for making sure that you use
the equipment on a regular basis. You should also place the
equipment in a prominent place so that you have to pass it
often. After a while, you’ll find no excuse not to exercise.

You might also consider investing in exercise videos or DVDs.
These allow you the convenience of exercising in the privacy of
your own home. They can also give you an electronic “exercise
buddy” who can help keep you inspired even on rainy days when
you don’t feel like exercising at all.

Another effective idea is to place your athletic shoes near the
door so that you are reminded of the need to walk rather than
drive. You might also consider rewarding yourself for keeping
with your exercise program. Your reward could be as elaborate as
a cruise or as small as a treat from the dollar store. The idea
is to make sure that your accomplishment is celebrated.

While we’re on the topic of celebration, seriously consider
throwing a party once you’ve reached an exercise milestone. You
can serve nutritious snacks and beverages and even encourage
your guests to come in their athletic wear in order to build
upon the party’s theme. Sharing your joy can help to motivate
you to continue your physical activities.

It should be said that there is no right way to exercise. But
you do need to make sure that whatever you do is effective and
that you’re sufficiently motivated to do it. By following just a
few simple tips, you can ensure that your exercise routine is
not just a fad, that it will continue over the long term.
Remember that you may face setbacks from time to time, but that
shouldn’t stop you from continuing to try to reach your exercise
goals.

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