How do I stay motivated to exercise?

Social media, the internet and easy access to everything we want has unfortunately created a big problem in our lives. We need everything and we need it now! One of the biggest problems caused by all this free information is that people receive constant micro-doses of dopamine. But what happens when your mind is too overstimulated from devices and you’re inevitably brought back to reality? That’s when you have no choice but to look at your current situation and see if you are where you want to be. Bring on the sad feelings.


​Feelings of inadequacy, frustration and of not being quite where we want to be. That goes for any part of your life but for the purpose of this post, we’ll be addressing your physical self in fitness. 
When we have those feelings, we seek ways to get rid of them, but mindlessly scrolling on social media can only do so much. So what do we do? Most people will simply continue to be sad and attempt to distract themselves from their feelings until this magic thing hits them…. 
MOTIVATION!!! - Motivation is the general desire or willingness of someone to do something.
Motivation is a powerful tool to get you started and to possibly keep you going. Except for when it isn’t . . . For you see, feelings and emotions are on a spectrum. They come and go like the weather. There is no constant state when dealing with emotions. (Unless you have some type of disorder. In which case perhaps it’s best to seek psychological help instead of reading about motivation) We've all been there: the New Year's resolutions, the burst of enthusiasm after watching a fitness documentary, or the sudden urge to get in shape for an upcoming event. These moments of motivation can be powerful, but they're often fleeting. So, should you rely on motivation to get you to exercise? The short answer is no. Here's why.
One of the most common answers I give to anyone who asks me how to stay motivated to exercise and lead a healthier lifestyle is to not focus on being motivated but rather focus on a goal. 
Relying solely on motivation means your exercise routine becomes inconsistent, making it challenging to see long-term results. Instead of relying on motivation, focus on setting achievable goals. Whether it's running a 5K, lifting a certain weight, or improving your flexibility, having clear objectives can help keep you on track. Break your goals down into smaller, manageable steps, and celebrate your progress along the way. This approach provides a sense of purpose and direction, making it easier to stay committed to your fitness routine.
Another option would be to have a workout buddy or joining a fitness group. This can provide the accountability you need to stick to your exercise regimen. When you know someone else is counting on you, it can be harder to skip a workout. Plus, sharing your fitness journey with others can be motivating and inspiring, creating a supportive community around your goals.
Include some element of enjoyment. Exercise shouldn't feel like a chore, you shouldn’t feel like you constantly need motivation to do something physical. Find activities you enjoy, whether it's dancing, hiking, swimming, or playing a sport. When you genuinely enjoy what you're doing, it's easier to stay motivated and make exercise a regular part of your lifestyle.
If you're struggling to stay motivated on your own, consider hiring a personal trainer to provide the extra support and encouragement you need to reach your fitness goals. A personal trainer can be a valuable ally in your fitness journey, especially when motivation is lacking. Their personalized approach, accountability check-ins, varied workouts, goal-setting assistance, and supportive relationship can help you overcome challenges, stay motivated, and achieve long-term success
Lastly, putting money into an exercise program is also a STRONG and consistent motivator for most people. Numerous studies show that when you actually invest money into something, there is a greater chance of you actually following through and not requiring any extra “motivation”. So why not invest in yourself and hold yourself accountable? 
Conclusion
While motivation can be a helpful starting point, it's not sustainable in the long run. Building habits, setting goals, seeking accountability, and focusing on enjoyment are far more reliable ways to maintain an active lifestyle. So, don't wait for motivation to strike. Take control of your fitness journey today and create lasting habits that will keep you moving forward and if you don’t know where to start or what you should be doing next in your fitness journey, reach out to us and we’ll get you on the right path. 

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