Exercise Motivation for Lagging New Year's Resolutions

Now that 2011 is in full swing you've either stuck to your exercise goals or decided to let them go because you've already lost motivation. What if you are in between though? Do you feel as if you're teetering on the brink of not heading back to the gym because you're beginning to lose interest? If this is the case; now is the time to sit down and re-assess the reasons why you don't want to go to the gym.

Re-Scheduling

Are you having difficulties fitting your workouts into your schedule or only have short periods of time to exercise? If you find it hard to get to the gym then begin re-arranging your schedule to better accommodate your needs. By now you're weeks into a training program and may have realized Wednesday is a better day than Thursday so change it before feeling defeated.

Personal Trainer

After several weeks of training it's a good idea to decide if part of the reason you prefer not to go to the gym is your personal trainer. Perhaps you love the exercises but you and your trainer just aren't compatible. This can put a damper on your intentions of going to the gym but it doesn't have to be a reason for not working out. Regardless of your personal trainer's feelings you should release this trainer and ask for a new personal trainer whom you may feel is better suited to you. Ask the head trainer or the manager of your health club and he will be able to accommodate you if you don't feel comfortable talking with your trainer about it.

Times

Have you realized your workouts are being sabotaged due to classes or short lunch breaks and it's hard to get quality training time in? Unfortunately, you may have to split some of your training into different parts of the day to keep up your exercise routine. Try doing your cardio in the morning and doing your weight lifting later in the day. Remember; your morning cardio doesn't have to be difficult. For example, walking to your local gas station for a morning cup of Joe is a great way to get your cardio finished for the day.

Training Partner

A training partner is a good way to re-motivate yourself with an exercise program. Being accountable to someone else makes you less likely to skip, shorten or stop training and also creates a special friendship. If you don't feel comfortable asking someone at the gym because your new then ask a family member, friend or co-worker who may be interested.

Social Networking

Although it seems like sitting in front of the computer is the least likely way to become motivated; it is a great source for reaching out to others in the same position. This outlet allows you to chat with others, research and learn other methods of training, as well as, add inspiration and motivation to workouts that may be lagging.

Contest

Enroll in a local contest to fuel the fires and to keep your goal in sight. See if your gym is offering a lose weight contest or sign up for a local 5K to keep you motivated and focused. It's much easier to stick to a program when there's a tangible goal ahead.