Wellbeing: Staying Motivated...

So once your up and running you'll be on your way to becoming a regular exerciser, here are seven ways to ensure you stay on top of things.

1. Challenge

Most of us work pretty well with little challenges, so it might be a good idea to enter an event around Easter time or early summer and work towards it. It could be something as simple as a charity walk or even a 5k fun run or 10k bike ride. No need to go mad, just give yourself a physical challenge to train for.

2. Inspiration

There are loads of good fitness magazines out there, why not subscribe to one? This will help you to keep healthy living and exercise at the forefront of your mind and also give you some added support and inspiration when you need it.

3. Reward

Here’s an idea that works well for some people. Try putting a couple of quid in a piggy bank every time you work out (that includes activities outside of the gym). When you’ve built up a bit of cash treat yourself to some workout gear or a spa day or a meal out, whatever. It’s all about celebrating success.

4. Reason

Write down the key reason or reasons you wanted to get into shape in the first place on a piece of card, put that card in your purse or wallet and remind yourself of it often (particularly if the going gets tough). Here are some very common exercise drivers we hear all the time:

 -To have more self confidence
- To have more energy
- To feel healthier 
- To attract the opposite sex
- To be able to play with the kids
- To live long enough to know my grandchildren
- To sleep better
- To manage my stress levels

5. Music

If you were wondering about the benefit of listening to upbeat music while you’re working out, don’t. The research says that the right music may not make you work any harder but it makes exercising a lot more enjoyable.

6. Progress

When you’re looking at things from the inside, sometimes it’s hard to see that you are making progress. Everyone needs a helping hand now and again and that’s what our coaches are here for. Book in for a Pit Stop or 121 review session and they’ll assess how far you’ve come and help you plan the way forward.

7. Perfection

The all-or-nothing thinking that comes with trying to be perfect is an exercise killer. We all have highs and lows in the gym. Enjoy the highs, endure the lows and remember sometimes good (or even downright average) is good enough. Oh, and by the way, do not (repeat do not) compare yourself with other people. This is your journey not theirs - take your time and enjoy the ride.