Staying Motivated to Exercise

By Donna Stark

I applaud everyone out there who shows up at the gym, the high school track, or even their unfinished basement on a consistent basis to get their sweat on because trying to get in shape and improve your overall health is no easy task. There are so many things in life that constantly pull you in the opposite direction of your goals. Work obligations, family time, the ice cream shop down the street ... it's no wonder people struggle so much when it comes to staying motivated and sticking to their commitment to exercise, but what about you? How is your motivation? If you find yourself struggling to stay focused, take a look at the following suggestions.

Forget the Instant Gratification

We live in a time where instant gratification is expected, but unfortunately, when it comes to getting fit, you may need to have a little more patience. You're not going to see immediate results after every workout, but you will find success in the long run. In the meantime, take a look at the following tips that will help to keep your attitude positive!

Acceptance

In order to stay motivated, it's important to accept the fact that not every workout is going to be life-changing. There will be days when you leave the gym feeling ho-hum about the routine you just finished, and that's perfectly OK. Be proud that you didn't quit or skip it altogether and get back at it the next day!

Measurements

Stop giving your bathroom scale the power to deflate you. The truth of the matter is that although the scale is a good tool to use to measure weight loss, it should never have the final say. That magic number the scale flashes at you every day is an arbitrary number that has little to do with your actual progress. It's important to remember that your weight will fluctuate from day to day, so take a break from using it and give yourself a few weeks before you step back on it.

Grace

I have yet to see a person lose a substantial amount of weight by eating a single salad and I have never seen a person increase the size of their clothing after eating one cupcake. Show yourself some grace if you make a "mistake," but keep your eye on the prize and don't give up if that happens. Eating the wrong kind of food for a special meal certainly won't reverse all of the progress you made but you do need to get back on track the next day!

Believe in Yourself

Forget about instant gratification. This is a commitment made for a lifetime, and as long as you stay on the path to optimal health and fitness, you will be sure to find all the success you desire! You got this!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic Hillsboro, Ore.