How to overcome laziness and get motivated to exercise
For some people, it’s not the prospect of the sweat and burn that accompanies physical activity that prevents them from exercising – it’s just downright laziness. If you are one of those people that dreads working out, it may not be your fault: According to The New York Times, scientists have discovered that humans are naturally programmed to use as little energy as possible during movement. To push yourself to overcome this basic instinct and have a great workout routine, follow these tips:
1. Pick the right playlist
There may be some science behind that boost in energy you get when your favorite song comes up on your iPod as you exercise. According to a study from the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse, listening to upbeat music while you workout can reduce the perception of effort and increase your endurance.
2. Have great fitness equipment
It’s hard to get motivated to work out when you don’t have great fitness equipment. Try hopping on a TRUE Fitness treadmill to get motivated. Each one comes equipped with the TRUE HRC Cruise Control heart monitoring system, which will help you do the precise amount of work you need to maintain your target heart rate. The preset workout programs will also help take the planning out of exercising so you can get right to work.
3. Exercise with a friend
Having a set time to exercise with a friend can be a great motivator. You’ll be less inclined to skip your workout if you know someone is counting on you being there. Friends can also be extremely supportive and help push each other to meet their fitness goals.
4. Set goals
Setting concrete goals could motivate you to stick with your fitness routine. Try making an exercise schedule for yourself each week and approach your workout as if it were an important business meeting. You wouldn’t slack off in front of your boss, would you? If for some reason you have to miss a day, write down why and look over your excuses at the end of the week to brainstorm ways to overcome them.
5. Reward yourself
If you’ve conquered your inherent laziness and met your exercise goals for the week, reward yourself! Take a friend to that movie you’ve been dying to see, treat yourself to a pedicure or go to a basketball game. Figure out what motivates you, and use that knowledge to push yourself into sticking with a regular workout routine.