15 Ways to Stay Motivated to Exercise

Ah, those sunny summer days were a great excuse to get outside and get moving. But with the end of summer, the days are getting shorter, you might just need a few reminders of how to keep yourself motivated to exercise and stay active through the fall and winter. Here are 15 tips you can put into action anytime.

1. Vary your routine or change your scenery: If you typically run on the treadmill at the gym, hit the pavement in your neighborhood or a jogging path at a local park instead. If you work out with weights, change up exercises each week and alternate between free weights and machines. Variety helps prevent boredom and keeps your body from getting used to the same routine, as well.
2. Try something new: If you belong to a gym where a variety of group exercise classes is offered, try a different class instead of your usual. Maybe there's an activity you've always wanted to try, like a triathlon, snow skiing or Tai Chi. Sign up for a race or book a trip to the mountains and start getting in shape for it.
3. Work out with someone: You'll be more inclined to show up if someone else is depending on you, plus you can pump each other up. Work out with a friend, co-worker, parent or spouse. You can also join a group class, sports league or team.
4. Make it a competition: Challenge your friends, family members or co-workers to a weight loss or fitness contest (create a "Biggest Loser" competition). Wager a friendly bet (but don't make the reward a big dinner) and hold each other accountable.
5. Set specific, manageable goals: So you want to lose 70 pounds? While you should always keep your eye on your long-term goals, you have to break them down into bite-sized, short-term goals. Set goals by the week so that you don't lose focus or become frustrated because things aren't happening as quickly as you think they should.
6. Keep an exercise journal: Monitoring your daily, weekly and monthly progress will help you reach your short-term goals and set new ones along the way. Besides your physical appearance, keeping a written record is another visual reminder of your hard work and progress.
7. Hire a personal trainer if you can afford one: Even if you can only afford a few sessions, a personal trainer can design a workout plan for you or refine and refresh your existing one. Your trainer can also help you plan realistic goals for weight loss or endurance, weight or sports training.
8. Make it interesting: If you get bored on the elliptical trainer, treadmill or bike at the gym, put on those earbuds and listen to music or watch TV. Or bring a magazine with you to help pass the time. You can also buy an accessory such as a heart rate monitor or pedometer to challenge yourself and keep track of your progress.
9. Do what you enjoy: If you don't like running, don't force yourself to do it! You will be much more inclined to exercise and motivated to stick to a routine if you enjoy yourself along the way.
10. Reward yourself: When you reach those goals, reward yourself! Treat yourself to a massage or buy a new pair of shoes. You can even reward yourself on a daily basis by soaking in the hot tub at the gym or taking a long, hot shower after your workout (again, no food rewards).
11. Weave exercise into your daily routine: Working out at the same time each day increases the likelihood you will exercise on a regular basis. Maybe you have to get it done in the morning before you start you day, or maybe it's more convenient to swing by the gym on your way home from work. Once a routine is established you will be more inclined to stay the course.
12. Let your emotions inspire you: Mad at your spouse? Maybe you just got a promotion at work and you can't contain your excitement. Whether you're sad, angry or jubilant, exercise is an excellent release for all those emotions and can improve your mood and mindset.
13. Join an online community: Whether you're trying to lose weight and/or reach fitness goals, it can help to communicate with others who have the same goals as you and can identify with your journey. These like-minded individuals can provide you moral support and motivation along the way.
14. Plan for special occasions: Getting married? Got a class reunion coming up? Maybe you're going on a cruise someplace warm and sunny. Special occasions are a great motivator to lose weight or tone up those muscles!
15. Remember the end result - improving your health: Whether you are exercising to lose weight or to stay in shape, remember it will improve your overall health - physically, mentally and emotionally - and help you live a longer, more fulfilling life. Now let's get started!