Ask the Coach: Tips on Sticking to Exercise

Q: I want to start exercising again, but everytime I start I end up dropping out for one reason or another. How can I get motivated and stick to it this time?

A: Its hard to start again if you feel like you are bound to fail. Take the time to review what was right and what was wrong with your approach last time. Try to learn from your mistakes. For example:

Did you do too much too quickly? Pace yourself. Start small and build up to more intense workouts later, when your body is ready. It's not very motivating to be in pain after your first work out. Remember, any activity you're doing now is more than you were doing before.

Were your goals realistic? Don't promise yourself you're going to work out for an hour every day, and then get down on yourself when you fall short. Set goals that you know you can achieve and slowly increase as you are successful.

Did you make it a priority? If you are not used to exercising, your life will not just MAKE time for it. You will need to make it a priority. Schedule time for it just like you would with another commitment. Exercising at a set schedule (day & time) will help you to develop a habit more quickly.

Were yo

u clear on WHY you want to exercise? When we choose to change a behavior for an unclear or short term goal, we tend to drop out. It is important to have a real clear vision of why you are doing this. You know that there will be times that you don't feel like exercising. This reason or vision will need to be strong enough to get you through those times.

Remember: You can do it! You can't see it when you lower your cholesterol or reduce your risk of diabetes, but that doesn't mean you aren't doing yourself a great favor! A longer, healthier life is definitely worth the exercise.

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