Why Struggling to Work Out is Not all Bad
By Rachel Carver
Are you struggling to hit the gym or to complete your workout routine? You are not alone. Even seasoned athletes sometimes lack motivation to exercise.
You might assume you need motivation to start or maintain a fitness routine. However, most people who exercise on a regular basis are not motivated enough to exercise daily. The idea that motivation is needed causes many people to give up on their fitness routines before they even start.
If you sometimes lack motivation, you are normal. In fact, your success rate might be higher if you rethink your definition of motivation.
Motivation is Not What it Seems
For most of us, motivation is not being pumped for a 5-mile run at first light. It is easy to compare ourselves to others on social media. We think they have lots of energy and are always ready to work out, but we do not see what goes on behind the scenes.
We Sometimes Focus on the Wrong Type of Motivation
The desire to start running at dawn may not be the motivation we need. However, we do need what's known as intrinsic motivation to consistently exercise. This motivation becomes stronger when we enjoy the activities we are doing.
We need something internally to keep us Going. External factors such as building muscles, losing weight, or running faster do not last forever. You eventually need a reason to exercise that is not about changing your appearance or improving your performance.
Action Often Comes Before Motivation
We often think we need to get motivated to do things such as exercise. But these items sometimes need to be reversed. You might need to step on the treadmill or step outside to get motivated to finish your workout.
When exercising leads to positive outcomes, such as energy or strength, the likelihood of repeating these actions increases. This works because of self-determination-theory. This theory suggests we all have three psychological needs to stay motivated:
- Autonomy gives us a sense of control
- Competence makes us feel effective
- Relatedness keeps us connected
Here's how to be intentional about adding autonomy, competence, and relatedness:
Competence - Redefine success by setting smaller goals. If you want to lose weight by exercising three days a week, you achieve your first goal if you complete the three weekly workouts.
Autonomy - Set a workout plan that fits your needs and schedule.
Competence - Start at a physical level that will help you succeed.
Relatedness - Find a workout buddy, someone who can relate to you and knows what you are going through.
The Bottom Line
Some days you will feel motivated. Some days you will not. This is normal for everyone.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Mukilteo, Wash.