By: Jon Osumi

Getting started on a new exercise program sometimes may feel like the easy part.  The difficulty is maintaining the discipline over any period of time.  The key is to reduce the boredom of routine.  Try these mind tricks to stimulate the motivation:

• Change the type of machines you are working on. If you are used to using free-weights at the gym, change to machines for a few weeks. If you perform cardio on the treadmill, try a bike or elliptical. Engaging your same muscles with similar but different stimulation will feel different and bring back the muscle soreness that we crave after a good workout.


• Try finding a workout partner. You would be amazed at how much different a workout can feel with someone else present. Mentally, you are being held accountable for your exercise as someone is watching you. One partner can work while the other is resting on each exercise.


• Give yourself a 'reward' day on the same day each week if you've met your goals. Small rewards go a long way when discipline is ruling your life. Give yourself a treat on Sunday for completing all your planned workouts during the week. Make the treat something other than food- a massage, facial, shopping trip, fresh flowers for your table, a long hot bath.


• If you have been steady on your program for a few weeks, take some time off from working out. You may be pleasantly surprised that you CRAVE the exercise you are missing. Once the body is used to a certain level of activity, it will not feel the same when that activity level drops. Combined with the healing that happens during a short lay-off (1 week or less), your motivation can also received a shot in the arm (or kick in the butt).

 
Jon Osumi

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