It’s easy to stay motivated in the early days of a new exercise program. As time passes, however, your enthusiasm fades and you’re just not as excited about hitting the gym. So, how can you keep your momentum going and meet your fitness goals? Here are some easy exercise tips to help keep you moving in the right direction:
Observe Results
To stay motivated, you must see results. When the numbers on the scale decrease or your clothes feel looser, it’s much easier to stick to your exercise routine. This is why it is essential to perform the right types of exercises for your specific goals.For example, if you’re trying to burn fat in your abdomen, aerobic or cardio exercises are generally the better option. These can include jogging, swimming, walking and other types of exercises that keep your heart rate elevated for a sustained period.If you want to firm up a specific area of your body, weight training using machines, dumbbells, kettlebells and resistance bands will help you see results. If you aren’t sure which type of exercise is best, consult a personal trainer for exercise tips.
Make It Affordable and Convenient
Working out at a fitness center will become a stressor if you can’t afford high membership fees or feel trapped by a long-term contract at a gym you don’t like. Fortunately, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee offers FitnessBlueSM, an employer-sponsored discount program that lets you work out at more than 9,000 gyms across the nation. Membership is flexible, there is no long-term contract and it is affordable with a one-time $29 enrollment fee and then just $29 a month. Check to see whether your employer offers this incentive.
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Reward Yourself
Reward yourself for fitness achievements, no matter how small they are. If you make every workout for the week, treat yourself to something simple, such as a latte, smoothie or your favorite magazine. When you’ve hit a major milestone in your fitness journey, spring for a more lavish reward, such as a new pair of designer jeans or that hot air balloon sightseeing trip you’ve always daydreamed about. Plus, your employer may offer incentives such as gift cards, paid time off or other rewards.
Pledge With Friends
Pledge to work out on a regular basis with family or friends. When you make a commitment with someone else, you’re more likely to follow through. Plus, when you work out with a partner, research shows you’re more likely to stay motivated.
Get Paid
Apps such as stickk.com or Pact let you get paid by those who pledge to live a healthy lifestyle but don’t. Here is how it works:
- Make an exercise goal.
- Set how much you’ll pay if you fail to meet the goal.
- Start exercising and track your progress.
- As you begin to meet your goals, get paid cash by members of the community who don’t meet theirs.
It’s not always easy to stay motivated, but you can use these exercise tips to help meet your goals and keep going.
Consult your doctor before beginning any diet or exercise program.