Finding Motivation to Stay Fit

Hello world! As I have previously mentioned, physical activity is just as significant as maintaining a well-balanced diet. To me, the trick to staying active is finding motivation. For that reason, I asked Vanessa from Gourmet Runner, an experienced individual when it comes to finding motivation, to write a guest post for my blog. Click here to check out a guide to exercising with Celiac Disease. Thanks Vanessa!

Vanessa @ Gourmet Runner

There’s nothing magical about those men and women who make sure to carve time out of their busy schedules for fitness. No special potions they drink, no mystical shoes they tie on each morning. Nope, no genetic difference between them and us. Only one thing gives them strength to run, lift weights, walk or otherwise exercise each day-motivation.

As I train for my first marathon this November, I am struggling to motivate myself to get out the door for workouts. An early morning run is tough no matter the distance, but when it is 20 miles long? It’s a battle not to just hit snooze on the alarm and forget about it. Here are some tips I use to stay motivated when exercise is the last thing on my mind:

ACCOUNTABILITY! Because even if you don’t want to go for a run, your blog readers/gym buddies/mom (hi, mom!) will hold you accountable. Let some people know what your workout plans are for the week, and ask them to check up on you.

SCHEDULE IT! I don’t generally need motivation to go to work, because it’s not an option. Don’t make exercise negotiable either. Write it down on your schedule and stick to it like it was a job or a social engagement with friends.

LOOK TO OTHERS! On days where I would much rather curl up with a bag of Swedish Fish than hit the track, I look to some of the runners I admire. Reminding myself of their accomplishments often pushes me out the door. 

VISUAL CUES! Another top that works for me is to physically see something that motivates me and encourages me. For some people this is a poster, a saying, or maybe a motivation board full of your goal times, ideal weight, etc. This is my personal favorite:

Thanks again Vanessa for sharing such great tips on how to keep that motivation going. Looking for more fitness tips? Or a new blog to follow? Check out Gourmet Runner here.

Oh, and before I go. Just a little reminder, Vanessa is hosting a Banjee Giveaway! These are very convenient for runners (like me!) or people who simply prefer carrying the essentials. Having one would definitely get me motivated to exercise. I mean, who wouldn't want to show off a cool wrist wallet, right? To enter the giveaway, click on the link below...

Banjee Review and Giveaway