Motivational Tricks to Make You Work Out

Here are some great tricks to motivate you to stick with your work-out.

Motivational Tip #1: Rubber band

Go to an office supply store and purchase a large package of rubber bands. Each time you go for a work-out, wear one rubber band on your wrist (make sure it is not tight!). If you don't want to wear it, carry it in your pocket. When you finish your work-out, go home and start building a rubber band ball. Each time you work out the rubber band ball will get larger. If it gets too large to add even one more rubber band, start a new ball. Put them all in a decorative bowl on the coffee table and you will definitely generate lots of interest. Every time you see the balls you will remember the hard work and sweat that went into building them.

Motivational Tip #2: Surprise Prizes

If you fulfill your commitment to work out, you will receive a prize at designated milestones, such as 1 week without missing a workout, or 1 month, or ability to run one mile without stopping. In order to make the prizes a surprise, have a friend purchase 4 or 5 prizes, one for each milestone. Give them a designated amount of money for each prize. Have them encourage you and check with you to see if you've met your milestone.

Motivational Tip #3: Set a Specific Goal

Set a specific goal to prepare yourself for a specific event. For example, sign up for and pay for a 5K race that is in 8 weeks. Then train specifically for that event. Buy a t-shirt that emphasizes your event, like a running shirt for the 5K or a tennis star shirt for entering a tennis tournament.

Motivational Tip #4: Dress for the job you want

Have you ever heard the statement "dress for the job you want?" When going for a promotion at work, if all the managers wear suits and ties and you want to be promoted to a manager, come to work in a suit and tie. The same can hold true for your work-outs. If you envy someone who wears shorts and a tank to the gym to work out, don't wait until you have reached all your goals and are in perfect shape to do it. Go ahead and wear that cute work-out outfit. Go ahead and wear a swimsuit and swim some laps or enjoy the Jacuzzi. Yes, your body is not perfect yet but enjoy the process. When you catch a glimpse of yourself in the mirror dressing like a fitness pro, you will begin to believe it can happen.