European Union Forums

[Dixie678]

I moved back to my hometown a few months ago and have completely lost my motivation to work out. Before, I was working out 5 days a week - cardio and weights. I have access to a treadmill where I live now and my regular cardio machine (elliptical trainer) is currently in a storage facility. I will get it back in December.

How can I gain back my motivation to exercise for the next few months?

[Daisy5]

Since you have access to a treadmill. Here is what I did and do all the time. If you have a portable DVD player, get a movie you want to see. Strap (DVD case) on the treadmill, put on earphones and enjoy walking your way through the movie. This will help to get you started.

[Dru987]

I am in the same predicament. Was working out 4-5 days a week & loving it. Went through a real hardship & motivation went out the window. When I first started I was really overweight so my motivation came from the scale & the mirror. Also my wife had joined Weight Watchers & lost a ton of weight & that made me take a long look at myself. The last 4-5 months I've had to force myself to work out & I hate that. Not sure if any of this will help, but keep me posted.

Good luck!

[Billie78]

Getting out the door that very first time is the hardest thing. Here are a few ideas that can help:

Buy yourself a new workout outfit, shoes, etc. Having something new to put on makes a difference.

Buy a pedometer. It's fun to try to wrack up the steps!

Start small. Don't tell yourself that you have to go out and exercise for an hour. If doing it for only 15 minutes gets you out the door, then start with 15 minutes!

Keep an exercise log. It's one of the most motivating things you can do. (You can print one out for free on the site below.)

Listen to music on an iPod or listen to books on tape or NPR or whatever interests you.

Try to find a workout buddy. It makes all the difference in the world!

Try different activities. Some things that are out of your comfort zone may be the most fun. Think in terms of jogging, power walking, inline skating, dancing, swimming laps, jumping rope, jumping jacks, etc.

Try some of the exercise DVDs that you can use at home. Many can be purchased in bookstores but they can also be checked out of the library or rented from a video store.

Sign up for a yoga or Pilates or Boot Camp class at your local YMCA or Rec. Center. They're a great way to meet people and you might find a workout buddy.

Hope these suggestions help. You can find more info. on the site below. Good luck!