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Motivation is Consistency in Action
Linda Geyer
We all exercise for the results. Different people are looking
for different results or outcomes. Goals vary from weight
loss, athletic performance, endurance, strength, toning, body
building to more flexibility, etc. Here are 10 tips for motivation
and consistency to get results and achieve your goals.
Exercise with a Buddy. Try working out with a friend,
spouse, or co-worker. It's harder to skip a workout if you
know someone is counting on you. The buddy system brings a
social element to exercise which makes it more fun.
Set a New Goal. An initial goal sets a foundation in
which future training goals are based. Setting a goal, such
as entering a 5K race or rock climbing, may never have entered
your mind. But after your initial goal is met, you will see
new, interesting, and fun adventures in fitness you never
thought possible.
Change Your Routine. Just a slight variation can take
you to a new level in your workout. We use periodized training,
a systemized approach involving progressive cycling of various
aspects of training protocol, in 6 week intervals to avoid
plateaus, boredom and for maximum effect. If you feel you
are at a stand still, train three times a week for 3-4 weeks
and experience the difference.
Treat Yourself to Variety. A heart-rate monitor, jump
rope, Physioball, medicine ball, and other exercise equipment
can help you work out more effectively and make your workouts
more fun and challenging. Try adding a sport to your activities
instead of always working out in the gym.
Try Something New. Personal trainers will challenge
you with exercises you've never tried before. Training with
different trainers also provides variety plus you learn from
the experience of a team of trainers. If you always walk on
a treadmill, try riding an exercise bike or an elliptical
trainer. If you always lift with machines, try free weights
instead.
Track Your Progress. Keep an exercise log. This will
help you track your goals, monitor your progress and adjust
your routine as necessary. Occasionally, test your maximum
strength to determine your progress in total strength. By
using a ten rep strength test, see how much weight you can
bench press and leg press in ten reps. Use your first measurement
of weight and reps as a benchmark and every three to four
months, retest your strength.
Reward Yourself. When you reach a goal or milestone,
treat yourself to something special - a massage, an evening
out, new clothes or some other indulgence. Studies show rewards
are a key to staying motivated.
Remember the Benefits. You know how good and healthy
you feel after a workout? Make a mental note of that feeling.
Use that memory to motivate yourself the next time you're
thinking of blowing off your workout.
Go Easy on Yourself. Stuff happens - doctor's appointments,
sick kids, illnesses. Don't let a few missed workouts turn
into a month of unfulfilled resolutions and move you further
away from your goals.
Plan and be Ready to Exercise. Schedule your workouts
like you schedule meetings and doctor appointments. Write
your exercise time in your palm pilot or day planner. Pack
your duffle bag with your gym clothes the night before you
go to work or school. Or have an extra duffle bag in the car
ready to go just in case you forget your gym clothes. For
more information on staying motivated and tips on exercise,
go to http://www.easyexercisetips.com
Linda Geyer, entrepreneur, speaker and author has
spent her entire career in health related businesses helping
clients and audiences make health a priority. She is Founder
and CEO of Vitality Management and owner of Peak Physique
Fitness Training in Michigan. Linda inspires, motivates and
educates on health prevention through exercise, healthy eating
and positive attitude. For FREE tips go to www.easyexercisetips.com
. To contact Linda Geyer, email linda@peakphysiquefitness.com
Article Source:
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