How do I get motivated to exercise?

Question

I was a swimmer in high school and would put in about 10 miles a day, but have not done anything since. Now, about a ear later, I am out of shape and need to get motivated to work out everyday. How do I do this? By the way, I cannot afford a personal trainer.

Answer 1

If you want to get in shape but cannot seem to get motivated, you’re not alone. Whether you’re putting off exercise because you think you don’t have time or because it’s been so long that you think your body is a lost cause, here’s how to get motivated to exercise.

1 Post a picture of your ideal body (keep it realistic to your body type) somewhere that you will see it every day. It could be a picture of an actress, bodybuilder or yourself when you were more active and in the best shape of your life.

Step2 Enroll in a class or join a gym. If you’re paying to exercise, the chances are better that you’ll follow through.

Step3 Organize a group of friends or family members who exercise together every week. If you make a commitment to other people, you’re more likely to follow through. You may also want to start a daily walk routine around the block with one or more of your neighbors.

Step4 Plan exercise activities that are fun and diverse, preferably outdoors with your group of friends or family members. Mix it up from week to week with adventurous activities you can look forward to such as hiking, swimming and canoeing.

Step5 Reward yourself after meeting your exercise goals for the week. Treat yourself to a movie or buy yourself a new pair of shoes (preferably for running). You may even want to make it a group activity rewarding you and your workout partners. Try to choose rewards that are not food-based.

Step6Make sure your exercise goals are realistic. Set them too high and you’re setting yourself up for failure. Start out with smaller goals that you know you can achieve, then work your way up. It’s better to feel great about an accomplishment–no matter its size–than terrible about a big failure.

Tips & Warnings

If after starting an exercise regimen you miss a workout here and there, let it go. Starting is the hardest part, so you’ve already won.



If you don’t see dramatic changes in your body right away, concentrate on the experience of your exercise, not the result. That’s why it’s ideal to choose exercises that are fun and adventurous with family and friends.

Answer 2

Find a form of exercise you would enjoy, one that wouldn't feel like a chore.  Many people don't feel motivated or engaged when they just go to the gym.

Try a team sport, test out a dance class, or ask your friends if they'd like to jog/bike/rollerblade with you on a set schedule.  When you find the right activity and the right partner, you won't dread your exercise routine as much any more.  

Lastly, pick some upbeat music for your MP3 player and that will make exercise (dare I say) fun.

Start out with a few days a week and work into a daily regime if you prefer, and when you least expect it, you'll start seeing the muscles and cuts!