How do I motivate myself to exercise everyday?

Question

I will do well for a short while and then I just stop. It is sickening! What keeps you going strong with exercise?

Answer 1

You know what you really need? Discipline!

Answer 2

Promise yourself that you'll do it, and use the sickened feeling toward yourself.  Tell yourself that you're not the kind of person to quit.  

I personally did the same thing, and I used to post up motivational posters on my tv, computer, microwave etc. telling me to work out and not to be lazy.  

Also finding the perfect workout mix to jam to while sweating is great because you can keep improving it and be like "I wonder if I'll do better working out with this song...run faster, push harder,"

The last time I got into my working out, I got into boxing.  I did it for a whole year and that is the ONLY sport that kept me motivated all on it's own.  There's something about having huge 270 lb. muscle men telling you that you're doing well.  It's flattering.  I even competed, but in my last match I broke my leg (more like shattered...) D:  So I haven't been able to get back into it for a looooong time

BE THANKFUL THAT YOU CAN WORKOUT

yeah! that should motivate you...

i can't work out.  work out for me!

Answer 3

You need motivation. Do you have anyone that you like? If you do, think of that person as a source of motivation and that you will get in better shape because you want to impress that person.

Or think that you look terrible and need to get in better shape so you will feel like a better person. Come up with a reason, any reason.

Answer 4

I look at the progress regularly, and notice where I still need work as well. I look in the mirror. it makes me feel good to see things I like (want to continue that) and motivates me to really work on the problem areas.

Answer 5

Do you have someone you can work out with?  It really helps if you know someone else is relying on you to turn up.  

The other thing is to just do it.  I mean, just start.  If you don't feel like it do it anyway.  Have a variety of different workouts you can do.  I have heaps on my website and am adding more all the time.  They are free too.  

I used to stop and start too, but I have such great results with myself and clients with these types of workouts, that it just motivates me to keep doing them.  When something is working, you will tend to keep doing it.  If you are not getting results, you will soon be bored with it and stop again.

Answer 6

Well if the problem is continuing to workout once you start, then mu suggestion is to set up mini goals.  When you're tired, tell yourself, "you can stop after this song"  or you can stop in one more minute.  Many times, you will want to set up another goal because you will feel accomplished.  Also, if you're working out on gym equip ALWAYS cover the clock/timer.  Watching it will make it feel like your workout is lasting forever.

I also suggest mixing thing up...run for 10 min, row for 10 min, etc

Finally, if the problem is going to the gym, you need to push yourself.  There are many nights when all I want to do is watch TV but I know I will feel better if i go to the gym.  Plus if you are at the gym, you can't be eating junk :-)

A final tip is to find a buddy...knowing he/she is relying on you will make you want to workout to keep your committment

Answer 7

the first answer...but i feel that..then i don't want to go outside to walk because i don't want tio be seen being ugly and fat....i have to try and make myself look ok just to walk but i don't anyway haha

Answer 8

Everyone goes through cycles!  Don't worry about it. Just get back on track again and keep going - don't beat yourself up for it.  Start again and keep thinking about the end result and the benefits you will get along the way.  

Some ideas though...

Try mixing it up with different types of exercise so you don't get bored.  Aerobics, running, swimming, cycling, weight training - mix it up every day and you will also notice better results.

Find an exercise buddy to motivate each other.

Keep a diet and exercise journal and write down everything - it makes you accountable and the guilt works a treat!