Q: I want to start exercising more and get into shape, but I can’t seem to push myself to doing it…
Q: I want to start exercising more and get into shape, but I can’t seem to push myself to doing it and give up easily after a few weeks. What can I do to motivate myself?
J. Kaur
Selangor, Malaysia
A: Hi there - the hardest part to starting an exercise program is getting started! And you’ve already succeeded in doing just that - so congratulations!
One important factor to stay motivated is to make sure that you are doing workouts that you enjoy. Exercise doesn’t have to be boring. If you like playing football for example, then start with those types of activities. If you like the beautiful outdoors, then perhaps you can start going for walks in a nearby park.
Learn to take it easy - many give up easily because they tend to do too much, too soon. The key is moderation. Start slowly. For example, if you previously have not exercised at all, don’t immediately start exercising 5 days per week. In this example I would suggest exercising for 30 minutes 3 times per week during your first week, slowly increasing the duration as weeks go by, and eventually increasing the frequency, slowly working your way up to most days of the week.
Another good way to stay motivated is to have someone workout with you - that way, you can both be accountable to each other to ensure that workouts aren’t missed. Plus, it’s fun to have a friend around!
If you’re new to exercise, do consult a physician (doctor) before beginning your exercise program.
Once you get past the first few weeks consistently, it will actually be much easier because you’ll start to see and feel the benefits of exercising, and you’ll have more motivation to keep on going!
Yours truly,
Noel Chelliah
ACE-CPT
About the Trainer
Noel Chelliah is an American Council on Exercise (ACE) Certified Lifestyle and Weight Management Consultant (LWMC), and ACE-certified Personal Trainer with many years of experience in health and fitness since 2000. Actively involved in the fitness industry as a Personal Trainer and freelance writer, he has coached and inspired countless individuals to successfully reach their fitness goals. Noel specializes in Weight Management, Lifestyle Change and Strength Training.
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