It has been said that the toughest part about working out is getting started. But we all know that staying motivated for the long run can be just as hard! Here are some tips from the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports to help you stick with it:
1. Adopt a specific plan and write it down.
2. Choose activities that you enjoy.
3. Keep setting realistic short-term goals as you go along, and remind yourself of them often.
4. Set aside a regular exercise time.
5. Vary your exercise program.
6. Keep a log to record your progress and make sure to keep it up-to-date.
7. Upgrade your fitness program as you progress.
8. Enlist the support and company of your family and friends.
9. Update others on your successes.
10. Avoid injuries by pacing yourself and including a warm-up and cool-down period as part of every workout.
11. Reward yourself periodically for a job well done!
The more of these tips you employ, the more likely you are to stick with a workout program for the long term.
Working out with a friend can help you stick with your program
Source: Exercise and Weight Control booklet, President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports