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Staying Motivated: An Important Factor in Weight Loss :
If you are attempting
to fight fat, it is simply not enough to begin an exercise program.
You must also be able to stick with it. This can be challenging, especially
if you have spent most of your life as a couch potato. You may find
exercise to be boring or a chore. And you may be wondering whether
your exercise program is really worth the effort.
It should be noted that the key to a successful exercise program is
perseverance. This means that you need to commit to it for the long
haul—in fact, it is best if you commit to it for the rest of
your life. Certainly, it can be difficult at times. But in the end,
it is well worth the effort you exert.
Staying motivated may begin with having a tangible goal. For instance,
if you are basically inactive when you start your program, you should
aim to burn off 500 calories a week. If you are fairly active when
you start exercising, your goal should be 1,000 calories. But you
must also have a long-term goal. This might be doubling the amount
of calories you burn within six months of commencing your exercise
program.
You might consider starting an exercise log. Here, you will record
exactly what kind of aerobic, anaerobic, and stretching exercises
you do each week. Be sure to include the number of repetitions you’re
performing with each exercise. This way, you’ll have a concrete
chart for your progress. Seeing how well you’re doing can be
truly inspiring and can keep you going when you find it difficult
to go on.
Another effective motivational strategy is to join a group that engages
in some kind of exercise. For instance, you might become a mall-walker
or you might find a local square dance club to join. Other possibilities
include hiking groups, golfing groups, softball teams, or even ping-pong
teams. The fact that you are part of a social network will help to
keep you motivated.
You might try psyching yourself out by using a computer screensaver
which says, “Get moving.” Or you might post a “get
moving” sign on your refrigerator. In other words, you should
be constantly reminded of the value of exercise. You might also invest
in home exercise equipment such as a treadmill, elliptical trainer,
or free weights. The amount of money you spend could be a powerful
incentive for making sure that you use the equipment on a regular
basis. You should also place the equipment in a prominent place so
that you have to pass it often. After a while, you’ll find no
excuse not to exercise.
You might also consider investing in exercise videos or DVDs. These
allow you the convenience of exercising in the privacy of your own
home. They can also give you an electronic “exercise buddy”
who can help keep you inspired even on rainy days when you don’t
feel like exercising at all.
Another effective idea is to place your athletic shoes near the door
so that you are reminded of the need to walk rather than drive. You
might also consider rewarding yourself for keeping with your exercise
program. Your reward could be as elaborate as a cruise or as small
as a treat from the dollar store. The idea is to make sure that your
accomplishment is celebrated.
While we’re on the topic of celebration, seriously consider
throwing a party once you’ve reached an exercise milestone.
You can serve nutritious snacks and beverages and even encourage your
guests to come in their athletic wear in order to build upon the party’s
theme. Sharing your joy can help to motivate you to continue your
physical activities.
It should be said that there is no right way to exercise. But you
do need to make sure that whatever you do is effective and that you’re
sufficiently motivated to do it. By following just a few simple tips,
you can ensure that your exercise routine is not just a fad that it
will continue over the long term. Remember that you may face setbacks
from time to time, but that shouldn’t stop you from continuing
to try to reach your exercise goals.
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