Strength for Her

Make a goal – It’s much easier to stay motivated and focused when working towards a specific goal. If you’re trying to start a running program, why not choose a 5K race to train for? You can set up a focused plan for each day that will help you achieve your goals. It’s sometimes easier to stick to a program when it’s broken down and taken day by day. Also, it’s feels great to make and achieve goals, so you may find yourself looking for another race after you’ve finished the first. Goals can be set for any activity – running, swimming, or cycling a certain distance, or in a certain time, or gaining the ability to lift a certain amount of weight in the gym.

Keep a log Not only will it allow you to keep track of your exercise program, but keeping a log is a great way to stay motivated. Sometimes having stay accountable in a written log will make you less likely to skip a workout. No one likes to see a whole week of blank days! Keeping a log is also a great way to keep track of how exercise affects your moods, your appetite, and more.

Switch it up - It’s easy to get bored or burn out by doing the same routine or exercise every single day. If running is your main cardio activity, alternate one cross-training day where you do something else – swim, spinning class, etc. This not only keeps things interesting, but it’s good for your muscles to get used in a different way.

Focus on the positive- Focus on gaining strength and ablility, not losing pounds. It’s easier to stay motivated when you’re working towards something, instead of just trying to escape something.

Find a partner - Having a workout partner is a great way to stick to your routine. You’ll be less likely to skip a workout if you have someone you’re supposed to meet there. And you can encourage each other, and take turns motivating the other when one person is feeling down. Plus, exercising is more fun when you have someone to share it with!