finding your motivation

 
September marks another new beginning.  Summer has come to an end and it’s time to return to work and get the kids back to school.  Our intentions to make big changes in our life have resurfaced and a new routine is beginning to take shape.  Why do so many of us fail when it comes to establishing this new healthy routine?

You may not be focusing on the true issue.

In my experience as a personal trainer I’ve found that if any one of these areas are not well thought out, there will be a greater chance of disappointment.

Accountability
Find a reliable friend to meet you at your fitness class.  Knowing someone will be there waiting for you will be a sure way to get you out of the house!  The social aspect of fitness is important, finding someone with common interests and sharing experiences with them will help develop a new lifestyle.  The laughs, high fives and words of encouragement from the bonds people make are things money simply can’t buy.  There’s a fitness squad for everyone.
 
Hire a professional and make a standing appointment. By working with a professional you are not only required to get in a workout, but they will ensure you’re exerting quality effort, while at the same time making it entertaining and enjoyable.  Not only that, but most health professionals have a 24hr cancellation policy.  Knowing you can’t cancel last minute without loosing a session can motivate you to get to the gym.
 
Make a plan
Rather than going to the gym and continually doing the same exercises that you feel comfortable with.  Make a plan or get a periodized program made for you.  This way you wont be wasting your time.  You will know your making efficient use of your hour at the gym and that your continually progressing and moving closer to your goal.

This can apply not only to exercise but eating healthy as well.  Making a plan is key to keeping your meals on track and your grocery bill at a minimum!
 
 
Set goals
The type of goals you set for yourself is important.  Specific goals related to your health or performance seems to have the most successful outcomes. 
For example:  You’d like to reduce the discomfort of your arthritis, or you don't want the symptoms related to diabetes to progress any further. 
Another goal could be; I’d like to get up off the floor without using my hands, or I’d like to do a chin up. 

These types of goals are usually accompanied with the side effect of weight loss (or weight gain if that’s what your body needs).  The stress associated with the way we look can be overwhelming and the results are never fast enough.

Looking at more concrete outcomes will motivate you to pursue your new lifestyle.
 
 
Find something you enjoy and look forward too
If you find yourself bored or uninterested with your choice of exercise, chances are it wont last long.  Try out every class and service your gym has to offer.  You may surprise yourself as to what you enjoy!
Find a workout that makes you feel good and surround yourself with people that help build your confidence as much as your strength.
 
What’s the cost of putting yourself out there? Priceless!
 
Some smaller and more instantaneous motivators you could try:

• Buy a new outfit or new pair of running shoes
• Download a new music play list
• Reward yourself with a smoothie afterwards
• Choose to participate in that 'good looking' instructors class today :)

 
Focus in on any one of these motivators and you’ll take a BIG step towards a new you!