Do you crave the idea of superb muscle and fitness – but hate exercise? Or perhaps 'hate' is too strong a word, but it's definitely down at the top of your 'Unfavorite Things' list. You're not alone. Health and fitness might be a high priority in theory, but many people don't like exercise – but a small percentage persist anyway and develop amazing bodies. How do they do that? And more importantly, how can YOU do it, too? There definitely are ways to learn to tolerate exercise, even if you never truly love it and here are some of the best fitness tips on workout motivation.
Tip #1: Perhaps You Don't Hate This One Quite As Much As The Others?
It's very important to choose exercises that you like at least a little bit. For example, the standard exercise for flattening the stomach is the crunch. If you despise crunches, choose another exercise, no matter what your trainer says. Or, if you don't like specific lower body exercise, try riding a bike. Don't let someone else create a program that you detest, no matter how knowledgeable they are. Find the exercise you like to do (at least a little bit) and your workout will seem more enjoyable right away.
Tip #2: Abandon The Idea Of A Structured Session
Stop thinking of exercise as a structured session. Find other activities you like to do and make them work for your body. For example, if you like working on your garden, realize that raking leaves is a tremendous cardiovascular exercise. Or abandon the riding mower and get a push mower. If you enjoy winter weather, you can try ice skating or sledding with friends. Instead of a cardio class, go dancing – line dancing or salsa are great for the lower body. Thanks to the introduction of the Wii and games like Dance Revolution, you can even combine video games and exercise. No matter what you like to do, you can find ways to get some exercise.
Tip #3: Combine An Exercise You DON'T Like With An Activity You DO Like
What do you like to do? Watch TV? OK, combine your Stairmaster sessions with a favorite TV program that will take your mind off the exercise that you despise – but will drastically improve your body. Like to read? Many stationary bikes have attachable racks that allow you to read the latest thriller while you pedal away the miles. In other words, distract yourself from distasteful activities and you're more likely to follow through.
Tip #4: Focus On Benefits, Not Misery
Focus on the benefits of continuing your exercise regime. Perhaps many members of your family have died early deaths because of heart attacks so you clearly need to focus on cardiovascular exercise. Or your Significant Other adores long walks and you can't go because you're gasping for air and exhausted long before she's ready to quit. Or you have a family history of early death but you're determined to see your children grow up. You already know that working out will not only reduce the fat on your body but it will also strengthen your immunity to disease and improve any physical ailments you may have. Make use of that knowledge by concentrating on what you'll receive, rather than the cost.
For more workout motivation tips, check out 8 Fitness Tips For Folks Who Absolutely HATE Exercise! Part 2.
Check out our Body Building & Fitness Center
Abubakar says
Stretch, push-ups and cardio exercises are best that i heard most of time and they work well. 10-15 mins for each exercise can give you Great Results.
Ernest says
Getting a fit body is everyone expect but whole process is very tough in the mean time!! Thus I think this type of instructive post helps people a lot through sharing handy tips regarding fitness. Thanks.