Getting to the Gym is Half the Battle

Motivation plays a huge role in a successful exercise program. We all know the benefits of exercise-lowered body-fat, increased strength, injury prevention, cholesterol and blood pressure reduction, and osteoporosis prevention just to name a few. So, why is it so difficult to find the inspiration to exercise regularly?

The first step towards being motivated to exercise regularly is to find the right type of exercise for you. A healthy lifestyle is achieved by incorporating regular exercise into your schedule, so it is important to perform exercises that you enjoy. A routine that you dread to perform will usually be short-lived. Try a combination of different activities, you can workout at the gym on Mondays and Fridays, and go on an outdoor bike ride or to your local pool for a swim on Wednesdays and finish the week off with a few rounds of golf on the weekend. The key is to find a balance of activities that you enjoy.

It is also motivating to change your workouts on a regular basis. Try altering your routine every four to six weeks. This will not only prevent boredom, but you will find that you get improved results. This way, as you progress, your routine will evolve to meet your changing needs. Also remember that you can avoid burnout by performing a short and balanced workout. Use your time wisely and remember that a balanced exercise routine involving strengthening, stretching and cardiovascular work can be performed in only 45 minutes.

If you find that you have no time to exercise try exercising first thing in the morning. If you workout first thing there is no time to procrastinate. Morning workouts are also great because you avoid the crowds as clubs are less busy at this time. If you aren\’t a morning person, simply avoid the afternoon 4-6:30 p.m. workout rush.

If you are having a hard time starting an exercise program because you find all the modern fitness equipment intimidating and confusing, don\’t worry. Most fitness clubs offer an equipment orientation. Personal trainers can also help develop a fitness program specific to your needs.

When people start fitness programs they always tell me that they want to lose 20-30 pounds or they say \”I was 25 pounds lighter when I got married, I want to get back to that weight.\” It may be more motivating to concentrate on reducing your body-fat instead of your weight. The scale does not account for muscle gains or water retention, if you feel good, and your clothes are getting a little looser, and your body-fat is going down you are on the right track!

There you have it, four tips to make your exercise lifestyle a success! Pick exercises that you enjoy, exercise at times that do not interfere with your daily activities, change your workouts regularly and set realistic fitness goals.

Shaun Karp is a certified personal trainer in Vancouver. For further information call his office at 604-420-7800.