Increasing motivation can help you be more active.
An important part of motivation is having reasons to do the action. Here are some common reasons why people want to be more active.
- Weight management
- Managing blood sugar or lowering risk for diabetes
- Reduced risk for heart disease or lower “bad” cholesterol, total cholesterol, or blood pressure
- Improved ability to focus
- Better sleep
- Better mood
It can help to write down your reasons and post them in places you can see easily.
Making exercise more enjoyable and easier can also boost motivation. Here are some examples.
- Find activities that you enjoy doing so they’re not a chore.
- Work out with friends or neighbors to increase accountability and make activity interesting.
- Log your activity.
- Start off with a warmup and finish with a cool-down to make your workout longer without feeling more challenging.
- Make it easier to get started by getting your shoes and workout gear ready in advance, and by telling yourself that you can stop after a few minutes if you want.
- Set goals like achieving a fitness milestone or participating in a fun run/walk.
- Join a sports league so you have motivation to train.
- Hire a personal trainer or join a group fitness class for accountability and variety.