Helpful ways to find MOTIVATION

Chandi Schwab
We All need motivation to do what we don't feel like doing, and working out is usually toward the top of the list. Here is a list to keep you motivated. Here are some reasons staying active is so beneficial:)

1. How you feel after a workout: I always feel great after a good workout. It’s a high. And I let that motivate me the next time.
2. Time for you: While many people make time to take care of others (kids, spouse, other family, co-workers, boss), they don’t often make time to take care of themselves. Instead, make your “you” time a priority, and don’t miss that exercise appointment.
3. Calories burned: If you count calories (and it’s really one of the most effective ways to lose weight), you know that the more you exercise, the more calories you burn — and the bigger your calorie deficit.
4. Having fun: Exercise should be fun. If it isn’t, try a different kind of activity that you enjoy. As long as you’re moving, it’s good for you.
5. How you’re going to look and feel: Imagine a slimmer, fitter you. And remember, when you feel good, you look better to yourself.
6. Magazines: It motivates me to read fitness magazines, it is a fun way to get new ideas.
7. Blogs: I enjoy reading other blogs about people who are into running, or losing weight. It can show the ups and downs they go through, and you can learn from their experiences.
8. Success stories: I find the success stories of others incredibly inspirational. If a fitness website has a success story, read it!
9. Rewards: If you exercise for a few days, give yourself a reward! A week? Another reward. By rewarding yourself you have something to look forward to. Do it often in the beginning.
10. Adrenaline rush: I get a rush when I exercise. Ride that rush to complete the workout, and give you energy through the remainder of your day.
11. Stress relief: Wound up after a long day at the work or at home with the kids? Get out and work off that stress. It makes a world of difference.
12. Time for contemplation. I love, love my time set aside for exercise, it is the best way to plan my day.
13. An exercise class or workout partner: Sign up for a class, perhaps with a friend, and you’ll be motivated to get there and work out.
14. A coach or trainer: Worth the money, just for the motivation.
15. An exercise log/graph. For some reason, writing it down is extremely important. Really. Do it for a week and you’ll see what I mean.
16. Your before picture. You often don’t realize how far you’ve come. Take pictures and over time you will see the transformation. Even if you haven't actually lost weight.
17. A 5K race, triathlon, or race of some sort:Just sign up for one, and have something to reach toward.
18. The dread of feeling “yuck” from not exercising:When I don't exercise I am so much lazier the whole rest of the day, So I remind myself of that when I feel tired.
19. Living long enough to see your grandkids … and play with them: Keeping your body healthy  and strong will most likely lead to living a longer, fuller life.
20. The scale: It’s not motivating to weigh yourself every day, as your weight fluctuates. But if you weigh yourself once a week, you’ll be motivated to have it keep going down, instead of up. Combine the scale with the measuring tape, and measure your waist.
21. Reaching a goal: Set a goal for pants you want to fit in, or a number of days to work out, or a number of miles to run this week. Setting and tracking a goal helps motivate you to complete that goal. Make it easily achievable. ry not to focus on your weight as much asfinding success in activity goals.
22. Posting it on your blog: Tell people you’re going to lose weight or exercise daily, and report to them. Or join the 8 week challenge. You’ll make it happen.
23. Motivational quotes: Print them out amnd put them where you will see them.like next to your computer or on your bathroom mirror.