How to Stick with an Exercise Routine

(481 Words)
Exercise provides a variety of benefits including weight loss, increased cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, less chance of stroke and more. Although many people realize the importance of exercise, a majority have difficulty keeping themselves motivated to do it on a regular basis. There are many different techniques that can keep the motivation strong.
Find something you like to do
It is difficult keeping up with something that you truly hate, but you might be able to find an exercise routine that you enjoy. For instance, a lot of people find the treadmill boring, but might enjoy a fun Zumba class. You can look at the interesting and unique aerobic classes and DVDs. In addition, you can make repetitive exercise more interesting by distracting yourself. For instance, while on the treadmill you can listen to music, watch television, read a book or talk on the phone. You might enjoy a sport that provides a lot of exercise. Also, you might want a varied workout routine that includes a variety of different things.
Find a partner
You may be able to keep motivated if you have a buddy. This buddy can go with you to exercise. You will be less likely to cancel a planned fitness outing if someone else is counting on you. You may be able to find someone at the gym or just someone you know.
Even if you do not actually exercise with someone, get a buddy to motivate you. For instance, make yourself accountable to him or her by explaining how much you exercise. You can also report it on Facebook or twitter. As others congratulate you on your achievements you might be more likely to continue with it.
Keep track
Look at how far you come. Make an exercise chart and write down what you do so you can look at it and be proud. It might be simple, but it can motivate you to do more.
Make goals so that you feel like you are reaching something. For instance, your goal may be to fit back into the jeans you wore in college. You can even make that goal obvious by putting the jeans somewhere you can see them or putting out a picture of you wearing the jeans.
Give yourself rewards
Reward yourself when you exercise. Of course, the reward should make sense; don’t eat a candy bar every time you exercise. But perhaps you will let yourself buy a little something or do something special if you reach an exercise goal.
Exercise is extremely important. Find a convenient time to do it so that you will be more likely to keep with it. For instance, if you are a morning person then just make it a routine that you will get up and exercise. By making it a routine you will continue to exercise and enjoy all of the fantastic benefits it brings.