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SALT LAKE CITY — We've all heard about the importance of exercise, but it can be so hard to stay motivated to keep up a good routine. Work and family life may get in the way of exercising, and the changing weather can stop even the most motivated person from getting out for an early morning run.
So, here are some ideas to help get you motivated to exercise this fall, winter and beyond.
Find a deeper motivation
Many of us know we need to exercise, but that's often not enough to get us started on an exercise routine or maintain one. Ask yourself questions about why you want to exercise. If you say it's to be healthy or to get fit, dig a little deeper. Try to define what healthy means to you and use that as your motivating factor.
After having my first child, I asked myself these questions and found that my reason for exercising is to improve my mental health and help me be more patient with my children. Since coming to this conclusion, I have been able to maintain a regular exercise routine because I am motivated by something personal. Take time to find your deeper reason for exercising and see if it helps you stick with a routine.
Move your body in an enjoyable way
Once you have established your deeper motivation, exercise in ways that are enjoyable to you. The best exercise for your body is the one you are willing to do. There are many different ways to move your body in a healthy way. You don't have to run to get your cardio in if you don't enjoy running. A brisk walk or dance class can count as a cardio workout. Explore ways you enjoy working out. It is so much easier to stick with something if you enjoy it.
Decide today that you will work out tomorrow
Make the decision today. Lay out your workout clothes in the evening or plan it into your schedule. Then honor the decision you have already made by following through. Your well-being is important. You are important. So, do everything you can to keep the commitments you have made to yourself.
Don't give up
There will always be ups and downs when trying to create new habits, so don't give up if you aren't perfect. This process of finding a deeper motivation can take time — weeks, months or even years. If you are continually trying, regardless of how many times you have fallen, then you are still successful. Failure only comes when you stop trying. Don't give up just because your first Zumba class wasn't to your liking. Try a different class or exercise on your own. The options are endless, so don't give up!
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