how to keep myself motivated

[roxie_09]

Hi all, I was just wondering if anyone had any good tips to keep motivated when going to the gym. I am a member of a gym and really want to lose weight, however, i have no motivation to keep going, i will start going for a few weeks and then i get bored. any suggestions? xx

[Eve.]

Maybe keep changing routine to keep things fresh and challenging. Get some really good music to take with you and look forward to going and switching off with some good tunes. If they have TV in there could you go when something you like to watch is on while you exercise eg do 30 mins on the treadmill/stepper while you watch Eastenders.

You could also look into classes. I always found them far better to get into and loved step and dance classes and such. Often they also have group running/rowing etc... sessions. Swimming is also great as a difference to your routine is there is a pool at the gym or locally. There might also be aqua classes.

I found a gym buddy helped. Before my arthritis kicked in so badly a friend and I used to go three times a week on set days at set times, more difficult to pull out if there are two of you and you then have some company and have more of a laugh when you're there.

Why not get some other activities planned which are energetic while being more fun like ice skating or going for a bike ride or long walk at the weekend or set a goal like climbing a hill or mountain or just a walk that challenges you a bit. You can change it all the time.

Maybe set yourself a goal. I have a number of friends who have achieved some brilliant goals just by having something to train for such as the local Great Manchester Run, urbanathlon and long distance charity bikerides. There are loads about, Race for Life, midnight walks, charity cycles. It led to a number of group sessions in parks for extra training and one friend in particular has made some amazing progress with a personal trainer.

[roxie_09]

Thanks Jenna, the gym I am a member at has all that, but is also expensive for one of my friends to come with me at the moment. I would love to go to a class and everything, but with going to uni full time and working too, its hard to find time. I have tried swimming before going to uni during the week, but keeping myself motivated is just so hard. I will have a look and see if there is anything near me going soon, I think a charity run would be best for me as I work better to help others than helping myself, I know it sounds crazy! ha, thanks for your help :D xx

[VHG]

Many many people join the gym with good intentions but rarely last more than a few weeks or months.

You will get just as much benefit walking round your local streets, or going to your local park and walking there.

It will be cheaper too.

Dont go to mad with exercise, a 20 minute brisk walk each day will gradually have an effect.

[roxie_09]

Thanks vhg, at the moment, my plan is to go to the gym in the morning before uni, just to walk on the treadmill for 30 minutes. i may aswell use it as the contract is forf 12 months, i am going to look at classes to, and just fit it in, although im going to have to teach myself motivation and keep going forward :) xx

[roxie_09]

lol @ eddie, there is that ahah x

[sallybb]

You have a dog! a good brisk 30 min walk in the morning will benefit you both and wont cost you anything. Just think of the money you could save towards its neuturing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! see her others posts