Motivating Yourself to Exercise

Here are some tips to encourage your desire to exercise. Whatever else you do, remember to be kind to yourself. Changing habits takes time.

1.   Exercise with someone you like, whether it’s a mate, friend or family member. Make a firm date, for example, going for a walk on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings, or meeting for an aerobics class at on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons.

2.   Pick something you enjoy. If you are an outdoor person try walking, running or biking. If you are challenged and invigorated by competition, try racket sports, volleyball or basketball.

3.   Set goals related to participation instead of outcomes like weight loss. Here’s an example: I will work out three times a week at a convenient time (even if it’s 10 minutes of stair-climbing during your lunch break).

4.   Notice how you feel after working out. Did you feel challenged, satisfied, relaxed, or tired in a “good” way? These are the kind of results that will help you want to continue. If you are uncomfortable or in pain, whether it’s immediately after or the day after, ease off. Reduce the amount of time and the intensity of your workout. Remember, you want to enjoy exercising.

5.   On the other hand, you may want to be a bit challenged by your workout. Of course, if you have only 20 minutes when you want to walk for 30, it’s better to get out and do it, rather than to skip it. But, when you can, go just a little longer or faster, or use more weight every so often so you don’t get bored. You may even want to try a new class at the recreation center or get out the bike instead of your walking shoes.

6.   It is advisable to get your physician’s approval before you begin an exercise program, especially if you have a heart condition or if you are recovering from a serious illness or injury.

Resource: For more great ideas, read Too Busy to Exercise by Porter Shimer, Storey Communications, 1996.

*** Massage should not be considered as a replacement for professional medical treatment: a physician should be consulted in all matters relating to health and especially in relation to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention. In some cases, a primary physician’s approval/prescription is required before any bodywork is administered. Care should be taken during pregnancy, particularly in the use of essential oils and pressure points. Essential oils should not be ingested, and should be used for babies and children only on professional advice.