The Psychology of Staying Motivated to Exercise: 5 Surprising Ways to Keep Moving

Have you ever found yourself struggling to stay motivated to exercise? You're not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only 23% of Americans get the recommended amount of physical activity per week. But fear not, girl, I 've got you covered. In this article, we'll delve into the psychology behind staying motivated to exercise and reveal five surprising ways to keep moving. From finding your "why" to using positive reinforcement, these tips will help you make exercise a regular and enjoyable part of your routine. So, whether you're a seasoned fitness enthusiast or just starting out on your wellness journey, keep reading to discover the keys to staying motivated and achieving your fitness goals.

Dig deep to find your why

One way to stay motivated to exercise is to dig deep and find your "why". In other words, what is your reason for wanting to exercise? Is it to improve your health, feel better about yourself, or accomplish a specific fitness goal? Whatever your reason may be, it's important to keep it in mind as you work towards your fitness goals. 

Focus on how good it will feel to have done

Another effective way to stay motivated while exercising is to focus on how good it will feel to have done the exercise. Instead of solely focusing on the effort and challenges of exercising, shift your mindset to the sense of accomplishment and satisfaction you'll feel afterwards. Visualize the positive outcomes of your workout, such as increased energy, improved mood, and a sense of pride in yourself.

By harnessing the power of positive visualization, you can reframe the way you think about exercise and make it easier to stay motivated. Remembering how good you'll feel post-workout can give you the boost you need to push through when you feel like not doing it.

Next, we'll explore how choosing exercises that keep your mind present on the workout can also help you stay motivated and engaged.,

Choose an exercise that keeps your mind present on the exercises

Choosing an exercise that keeps your mind present on the workout can be a powerful motivator. Activities such as  Pilates, and dance require focus and concentration, which can help you stay engaged and present in the moment. When your mind is focused on the exercise, you're less likely to get distracted and give up.

For example, practicing Pilates allows you to connect with your body and breath, creating a mind-body connection that can help you stay present and focused. Pilates also emphasizes precise, controlled movements, which require concentration and attention to detail. Dance, on the other hand, demands coordination, rhythm, and balance, requiring you to be fully present and engaged in the moment.

By choosing an exercise that keeps your mind present, you can make your workout more enjoyable and engaging. You'll be able to fully immerse yourself in the experience, leaving behind any distractions or stress from your day.

When you're fully engaged in your workout, you're more likely to stick with it and see results. In the next section, we'll explore how making exercise a social activity can also help you stay motivated and engaged in your fitness routine, while providing an added element of fun and connection.,

Make exercise a social activity

Research has shown that exercising with others can provide a boost in motivation and enjoyment. Not only does it increase accountability, but it also adds a social element that can make your workout more fun and engaging. Whether you join a fitness class or recruit a workout buddy, having someone to share your fitness journey with can make all the difference in staying motivated.

In addition to providing a supportive community, exercising with others can also push you to work harder and achieve greater results. Whether you're engaging in friendly competition or simply feeding off of each other's energy, exercising with a group can help you push past plateaus and reach new heights.

By making exercise a social activity, you can benefit from increased motivation, accountability, and enjoyment, all while forming meaningful connections with others who share your fitness goals. And speaking of motivation, in the next section, we'll explore how to use positive reinforcement to keep yourself on track and energized.

Use positive reinforcement

Making exercise a social activity can provide a boost to your motivation and accountability, but there are times when external factors aren't enough to keep you going. That's where positive reinforcement comes in.

By rewarding yourself for your efforts, you can create a system of positive feedback that reinforces your exercise routine and keeps you motivated. This can be as simple as treating yourself to a favorite snack or indulging in a relaxing activity after a particularly challenging workout. 

Another way to use positive reinforcement is to celebrate small victories along the way. Whether it's hitting a new personal record or simply sticking to your routine for a week straight, taking the time to acknowledge your progress can help you stay energized and focused.

Incorporating positive self-talk can also be a powerful tool in reinforcing your motivation. When you find yourself struggling, remind yourself of all the progress you've made and the benefits you're reaping from your efforts. By focusing on the positive aspects of your journey, you can build a strong foundation of motivation and drive.

In conclusion, staying motivated to exercise requires a multifaceted approach that takes into account both internal and external factors. By creating a supportive community, rewarding yourself for your efforts, and using positive self-talk, you can keep yourself on track and achieve your fitness goals. Keep pushing yourself and celebrating your successes, and you'll be amazed at what you can accomplish.

In conclusion, the struggle to stay motivated to exercise is real, but it's not insurmountable. By digging deep to find your why, focusing on the benefits, choosing an exercise that keeps your mind present, making it a social activity, and using positive reinforcement, you can stay motivated and make exercise a regular part of your routine. As the saying goes, "exercise is a celebration of what your body can do, not a punishment for what you ate." So, celebrate your body and keep moving.

XO, Rachel

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