5 Ways to Stay Motivated to Exercise

Staying motivated to exercise is hard.

My friend "Jennifer" joined a running group recently to help her become more active. It’s this serious organization where 150 or so professionals gather to support each other as they run weekly together around the city to stay fit.

When Jennifer took me up on my offer to watch her five-year-old so she could try it out, she pleasantly surprised me. She isn't the type to ask for help.

Let’s evaluate her self-care scenario to get in shape. I want to look at this as an example of pitfalls to avoid and how to set yourself up for success and remain motivated.

We'll quickly examine what worked, and what she could have done differently to complete her goal of running with this group weekly?
 
Action #1: She planned in advance.

Action #2: She sought support.

When I arrived to babysit, I learned she checked in with one of our other friends to join her for the run. It was making it harder for her to back out.

Action #3: She got an accountability partner.

When Jennifer returned home from the run, she was so tired and sore, but pumped! She was proud of herself for not finishing last. She's that type who competes with her fellow runners, but they don't realize she's striving to beat them. Her daughter and I gave her a big applause. 

Action #4: She chose an activity that's motivating because of the "competition," camaraderie and collectivism of a massive group.

Action #5: She congratulated herself and surrounded herself with supportive friends and family.

Fast forward a week later. Jennifer didn't make it out. Her daughter is with the grandparents so she had childcare, but while at work she sent text messages about how she didn't feel well or feel like going for a walk as an alternative. 

Misstep: She talked herself out of it. Our minds are powerful! It’s so important to make a decision that you’re going to do something. If you know it’s going to be hard, make a plan and secure reinforcements like the ones mentioned above. 

Many of us don’t get things done by “trying.”  

Do what's necessary to ensure you implement self-care.