I was reading an article in MORE magazine and came across a small piece on what motivates you to exercise. The reason I bring up the piece, is that I agree highly with the content. According to MORE, the top reasons women over 40 exercise are to lose weight and protect their health.
Well........does that sound like FUN.....does that say......I want to do this because it is fun......or does this say that it is something I HAVE TO DO....like taking a mouthful of bitter medicine. I think the latter......how about you.
The lesser percentage of women surveyed stated that they exercised to improve their mood and reduce stress.....NOW....that sounds FABULOUS.....and you know what. The women who exercised for this reason remained true to their programs and exercised 30% more than those seeking to lose the weight and protect their health.
Now......you might think that losing weight would be motivational.....but let's say that you do not see the results you are looking for, and the I do not like myself, or I am not good enough feelings overwhelm you....then what....FRUSTRATION.....and then....GIVE UP. Let's chew up and spit out that animal and think about your fitness program differently.......
So.....take a minute to think about the immediate benefits of exercise....and focus on how you feel after you have finished exercising.... Positive endorphines (happy hormones) are released during exercise creating a positive mood and reducing stress. Being able to flow through your day more at ease and "feeling good" "feeling accomplished" "feeling on top of the world" are feelings that you will want to repeat again, and again, and again......and the long term benefit will be an improvement in the quality of your life and health.....and before you realize it....an adapted regular fitness program.
Now....take a minute to see what you can fit into your lifestyle....time/work/family/relationship. Also, in this thought process, think about what you like to do that is active and make that the core of your fitness......doing something you are passionate about will also keep you coming back for more.
I look forward to your comments and questions......
Stay Healthy
Darla
