There's a direct correlation between people who stick to fitness plans and motivation. Simply put, people that are motivated are more likely to reach their goals and continue working out consistently. Indeed, this is what holds so many people back. You have an initial burst of motivation, possibly caused by an extrinsic factor. For example, you start going to the gym and working out in January as your New Year's Resolution. By February/March, you've already stopped going as the novelty of the resolution has worn off.
There are so many other scenarios where you have an initial burst of motivation, but it goes away, giving you no reason to work out. With that in mind, you need to know how to find your workout motivation for long-term success. It sounds difficult, but it's very easy to get motivated!
Set SMART Goals
SMART goals are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. It's a way of setting goals to make them more realistic than just saying you want to do something. Anyway, goal setting is crucial for motivation as it gives you something to aim for. It's much easier to make your way down a dark passageway when there's a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel. Otherwise, you're stuck in the dark and the easiest option is to give up and turn around! Set yourself some SMART goals based on your fitness ambitions, and you have your reason to work out right there.
Track Your Progress
Similarly, progress tracking is a great source of motivation. For some, it can be demotivating - but only when you show a lack of progress. The key is to look at all the different fitness variables you can track. Progress photos are great, showing visual changes in your body. Weighing yourself or taking other body measurements can help as well, but should be taken with a pinch of salt. Tracking things like your workout performance is also very useful at building your motivation. If you see that your 5k time is decreasing week after week, it motivates you to keep pushing and seeing how far you can bring it down. Always track your progress - it lets you know how you're doing and can motivate you to be even better.
Work With A Personal Trainer
Finally, personal trainers or fitness coaches are great sources of motivation. They can create plans for you, helping you set goals and stick to a structure. The financial obligation of paying them also acts as a motivating factor! You can find personal trainers in most gyms, or you can look for an online fitness coach if you prefer working out at home. The choice is yours, but having a fitness professional in your corner can be more motivating than you initially expect.
All things in life are easier to stick to when you're motivated - none more so than fitness. If you find it hard to stick to a plan, try using the tips above to find your motivation and enjoy long-term gains.
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