So you've decided to get in shape. You've decided to lose, say, 3 dress sizes by the end of the year, look like a super-model, and run a marathon or two. The first week of your plan goes great-- you get out your running shoes (and actually use them for running), you give up your usual nightly ice-cream fix, and you start feeling good. You're off to a great start.
And then comes the second week. You get on the scale and see that despite all your efforts, you only lost one pound. You're already getting bored when you go running and you start skipping your planned runs and start going to get chocolate instead. By the end of week 2, you've decided to go back to your old ways.
Sound familiar? It's easy to say you're going to get in shape and exercise regularly and much, much, much harder to stick to the plan. Here are some tips to help you get motivated and stay motivated about exercise.
Set realistic and specific goals
Saying to yourself that you want to get in shape and have the body of a super-model means sure disaster for 2 reasons. (1) Only 2% of women have the potential of having a super-model's body and (2) it's not a specific goal. It's hard to mark your progress when a goal's not realistic. Instead, set more realistic goals like, "I want to be able to run for 30 minutes without stopping" or "I want to lose 5 pounds."
Set short-term goals within the bigger plan
For example, make it your short-term goal to lose 1-2 pounds by the end of Week 1 of your programme, or to run 10 minutes every other day of Week 1.
Work out in the morning
Studies show that people who exercise first thing in the morning are more likely to stick to their routine. Why? Because nothing else comes up. There's no sudden invitation to go see a movie or go to a school committee meeting at 7:30 a.m.! If you have a hard time getting up in the morning, lay out your exercise clothes the night before so you see them as soon as you wake up.
Get a motivated friend to join you
Working out with a friend or sibling is a great way to keep you inspired. Just make sure your exercise partner is as motivated as you are about getting in shape so you stay on track.
Keep an exercise diary
Keeping a record and a plan is a good way to track your progress -- and keep you motivated. It will also help remind you of how far you've come!
Spice up your exercise routine
Variety is the spice of life -- and of a successful exercise plan. Following the same routine every day can get boring. So try other forms of exercise every other day -- things like biking with a friend or even dancing count too!
Ask your family and friends to support you
Tell your family and friends how important your new exercise plan and goals are so that they can be supportive. Everyone needs a bit of an ego boost.
Keep a photo of someone who inspires you
Maybe it's a famous athlete like Kelly Holmes, or maybe it's just someone with a healthy-looking, fit body who inspires you. Whoever it is that you admire, looking at his or her photo might help keep you motivated -- and exercising!
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