Finding Motivation
You know that getting regular exercise and moving more is important, but it is not necessarily happening.
There is a part of you that wants to do it.
You feel tired and there are demands on your schedule from work, school, and or family responsibilities vying for your time.
When you are struggling to get motivated, ask yourself the following questions, and write your answers down on actual paper.
1. What is your why (for making exercise a priority)? Or why is exercise important to you?
Here are a few examples :
· “To be able to move better and have more energy to play with my children/grandchildren.”
· “To be in better shape before surgery, so I can have an easier recovery.”
· “I feel less depressed when I exercise”. “My mood is better.”
2. How does exercise make you feel while you are doing it and after?
Feel it for a moment, in your memory. That feeling of relaxed peace.
3. What happens when your exercise is not consistent?
Sit with the feelings. How is your mood, energy, overall outlook?
4. What would make getting started or maintaining consistency easier?
What’s worked in the past
5. What do you enjoy doing?
No really, what do you love? Think back to childhood for more ideas!
As you take a moment to process your thoughts and write down your answers, here are some tips that can help make the process easier and more enjoyable!
1. Exercise with a friend.
Going for a walk or a hike with a friend is a great way to get outside, be social, and move at the same time. If you are exercising at home, schedule a Zoom exercise session with a friend.
2. Engage in short bouts of exercise throughout the day
Versus a prolonged session. Benefits are derived from shorter sessions and are more manageable especially if you are deconditioned. Shorter bouts also provide the opportunity to move frequently versus being sedentary for long periods. An example of this can be a 10-minute walk in the morning, afternoon, and evening.
3. Attach opportunities for movement to something that you are already doing.
Complete some of your errands by walking or incorporate mini stretch breaks during the workday. Exercises that are programmed for a structured strength training routine can also be divided up into mini-sessions throughout the day instead of one long session.
4. Engage in activities you enjoy. This can be an easy place to start moving more.
5. Get off to a safe start. Consult with your doctor before beginning an exercise program, especially if you have a health condition that requires medical clearance or if you have been sedentary for a long time.