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Written by Navneet Kaur, M.Sc. Nutrition & Dietetics
Exercise
Finding and maintaining workout motivation can be a challenge for many people. Here are some strategies to help you stay motivated.
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Define your fitness goals and make them specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Having a clear direction will give you something to work towards and help you stay focused.
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Identify your personal reasons for wanting to exercise- improving your health, boosting your energy levels, relieving stress, or achieving a specific milestone. Remind yourself of these reasons whenever your motivation wavers.
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Establish a consistent workout routine that fits into your schedule. Treat exercise as a non-negotiable appointment with yourself. Over time, it will become a habit that requires less willpower and motivation to maintain.
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Variety can keep your workouts interesting. Try different activities, classes, or sports to challenge yourself and discover what you enjoy the most. You can also change your workout environment by exercising outdoors or trying new fitness facilities.
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Partnering up with a friend or joining a fitness group can make workouts more enjoyable and hold you accountable. Having someone to share your progress, challenges, and successes with can provide additional motivation and support.
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Keep a record of your workouts, including the exercises, sets, reps, and duration. Seeing your progress over time can be highly motivating and help you stay on track. You can also track other metrics like weight, body measurements, or fitness milestones.
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Set up rewards for reaching certain milestones or sticking to your workout routine consistently. Treat yourself to something you enjoy, like a massage, a new workout outfit, or a fun activity, as a way to acknowledge your hard work and dedication.
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Follow fitness influencers, read fitness blogs or books, watch motivational videos, or listen to uplifting podcasts related to health and fitness. Surrounding yourself with positive and inspiring content can help you stay motivated and maintain a positive mindset.
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Remind yourself of the physical and mental benefits of exercise. Regular workouts can improve your mood, increase your energy levels, enhance your overall well-being, and reduce the risk of various health conditions.
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Remember that motivation can ebb and flow. If you miss a workout or have a setback, don't be too hard on yourself. Accept that it's a part of the journey and focus on getting back on track. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and practice self-compassion along the way.
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By incorporating these strategies into your routine, you can boost your workout motivation. Remember that it may require effort and adjustments from time to time. Stay focused, stay positive, and enjoy the journey towards a healthier and fitter you!
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