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Staying in shape is easy when you are already engaged in a regular exercise regime. Unfortunately, life is full of little obstacles that can knock us out of rhythm. A lifestyle change or sudden injury can cause us to break from routine, and our fitness is lost so quickly. It can be hard to get going again, especially when your self-esteem drops.
So, how can you motivate yourself to get back in shape? Read this article to find out.
Start With Easy Goals
If you were a highly athletic individual before you stopped exercising regularly, you will likely put a lot of pressure on yourself in the beginning. You feel that you were capable of certain tasks before and so you should be able to pick up a routine again at the same pace.
However, this pressure is not good for your fitness mentality. A lofty exercise goal can seem daunting, which makes it far easier to put off. Try to get a feel for what your body is capable of before you start your exercise regime and set your goals from there. You can gradually increase your workout time as your fitness increases, but remember to start slow and you can build back up to your former fitness level in no time.
Make It Fun
Some of us enjoy the thrill of exercise; the pounding in our chest and the adrenaline it brings. Sadly, not everyone gets the same thrill out of the excessive movement. For a lot of people, regular exercise is a chore.
This does not mean that it has to be boring. There are plenty of things that you can mix in with your routine to make it less gruelling. Why not set up the next episode of your favourite T.V show to watch alongside your workout? If you are going for a run, download your favourite songs so that you have something you like to focus on.
Some people can work out without these distractions; however, these small additions to your routine can give you something to look forward to during an otherwise unpleasant activity.
Look After Yourself
The hardest part of most exercise regimes isn’t the workout itself but the after-effects. Sore muscles and aches can make the notion of further exercise less appealing, halting your progress and killing your motivation.
That is why it is important to look after yourself properly by stretching your muscles after each workout or even taking it a step further with a Ben Tolson sports massage for a sports massage in Bristol. A deep tissue massage can clear away those aches and get you fighting fit in no time. Whatever you choose to do, just make sure that you are ready before you hit the gym again.
Remember Why You Started
Not everyone wants to work out to stay fit. Some of us want to lose a few extra pounds, some do it for the ones that they love, and others seek to exercise socially. Whatever your reasons for getting up off the sofa again, keep them in mind as you go. You don’t have to feel guilty, but constantly remind yourself why you got up in the first place so that you don’t get knocked back down.
Summary
Whatever your reasons for getting back into shape, take our advice to ensure that you stay motivated as you go through this routine change. Also, remember to pat yourself on the back for trying to stay healthy.
