Week after week, exercising can feel like a chore. Especially when we are already busy with family, work and social commitments. So, how do we get the motivation to be active regularly?
Auckland Council’s Fitness Lead Ritua Ali'iva'a says motivation is a common barrier to exercise for a lot of people.
“Even if we have the best of intentions, sometimes our level of motivation can get in the way,” she says.
“Lack of motivation can be overcome by creating strategies to help make physical activity part of your daily life, but you also need to understand ‘your why’.
"Losing weight or getting fit is not the 'why'. You need to peel back the layers and be honest about why you want to lose weight or get fit. When you peel it back enough to where it pulls on your heartstrings, this can be just what you need to feel motivated to move.”
Here are some tips to help you (almost) never miss a workout again.
- Schedule your workouts
Pop your workouts in your calendar or set reminders on your phone. This will help make exercise a priority and eventually will become a habit over time.
- Put your activewear out, so you’re ready to go
Keep exercise at the forefront by displaying your activewear in plain sight. Put your running shoes and workout clothes next to the bed or in a place where you spend a lot of time. It will serve as a constant reminder and act as a visual cue to get moving.
- Do something you enjoy
You are more likely to stick with something if you’re having fun. Try different activities with different people to find what works for you.
- Try a group fitness class
Group fitness classes are a great way to switch up your exercise routine and keep things interesting. Being in a group of like-minded people will help push you forward and put in your best effort. Why not try a class you have never done before?
- Find a workout mate
Organise to meet a mate at a group fitness class or to go for a walk. Being accountable to someone else can help ensure you turn up, so you don’t let them down. Just make sure your mate is reliable and isn’t someone that makes excuses. You will feed off their positivity.
- Turn your commute into a workout
Run, walk or bike to where you need to go. Get off at the earlier bus stop or park your car further away from the office. This is a great way for people who lead increasingly busy lives to fit in some exercise during the day.
- If you fall off, get back on
Be courageous. It doesn’t matter how long it’s been since you last exercised or if you don’t manage to form a regular routine right away. Just remind yourself of what you want to achieve and take it one small step at a time. Whatever your barriers are, look for solutions or approach a fitness professional for some advice.
Sign up for a free trial
Looking to get active? Come and give your local Auckland Council Pools and Leisure centre a try. Grab a free one-week trial to get access to our fitness centres, pools and group fitness classes. Visit the Auckland Council website to find out more.
