Why are some people more motivated than others? How does one get motivated and stay motivated when it comes to exercise? Lack of motivation is one of the primary reasons that people hire trainers and take group fitness classes. Let’s identify extrinsic and intrinsic motivation.
Extrinsic – external motivation – I see others exercising outdoors and it motivates me to get out there and join them! I hear great music and suddenly I find myself dancing to the beat!
Intrinsic – internal motivation – I feel calm, focused and productive once I’ve exercised. I go out for a brisk walk or jog because I like how it makes me feel. My mood is great when I exercise, so I am motivated to do something on a daily basis.
Sounds easy? It is not so simple. Here is a tip that works quite well- the next time that you are low on motivation, trick yourself. Tell yourself that you are only going to exercise for 5 minutes. I guarantee you that once you warm up you won’t stop. Before you know it you will have exercised for a longer time. Another trick – exercise to music! Music is a wonderful motivational tool!
