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Need a reason to Walk !

Posted on May 07, 2009 at 12:09 PM

1. We all know the benefits of exercise.It’s not rocket science and yet there is still this great disconnect fron knowing what is good for us and actually doing it. The more we benefit, the more motivated we are. For example, if I told you I'd give you a million dollars to take a 30-minute walk tomorrow morning, would you do it? You bet you would! The benefits of exercise aren't quite that compelling, but they are pretty motivating! You will benefit tremendously from consistent exercise.
2. Create your personal "reasons list." Keep a piece of paper and pen handy for a couple of days. Jot down EVERY reason you can think of as to why you should exercise. I have given you a helping hand to get started.
o Get fit
o Be healthier and have more energy
o Lose weight
o to be able to fit into all your clothes in your wardrobe
o to be able to live a long, healthy life and to enjoy time with your children, husband, and grandchildren (eventually)
o to not be uncomfortable in public
o to not become breathless climbing stairs
o to be able to do "active" things with family and friends
o to be able to wear nice clothes

The list goes on, but you get the picture. Make a long, extensive list. This may not seem important, but it is critical to be able to read this list when your motivation to exercise is waning. It's a powerful way to quickly get "re-motivated"!
3. Exercise with a friend. Statistics tell us that people who exercise with a friend are more successful at exercising consistently. You can keep each other accountable. Knowing that someone is waiting for you to exercise with them can be great motivation to show up and get it done!
4. Exercise first thing in the morning, every morning. Folks, if you're really serious about this exercise thing, then get serious about it. Our bodies were made to be active on a daily basis, and when we are, all sorts of wonderful things happen. We even get healthy and fit! People who exercise 6 to 7 days per week first thing in the morning are much more successful at exercising consistently than those who do the 2 or 3 day thing. It doesn't have to be a huge workout everyday. Get out there and take a 30-minute walk.
5. Train for a local 5K or 10K walk or run in your area. This can be great motivation to exercise on a regular basis. I've seen many people transformed from couch potatoes to lean, mean, exercising machines because they decided to enter and train for a competition like this. Don't think you can't do it...YOU CAN! Check out Events on www.wonderwalkers.co.nz
6. Reward yourself! Puts $2 or what ever in a piggy bank every time you exercise.. Give yourrself the freedom to spend this money on things you normally wouldn't buy for yourself.
7. Keep records. Use the Walking Diary and or pedometer. Set some lofty goals!

BONUS TIPS
o Make your exercise as enjoyable as possible. For example, if you're a walker, you may want to use an ipod or mp3 player..just be careful. On the other hand, you may just prefer peace and quiet. Do whatever makes exercise most enjoyable for you. You are much more likely to exercise consistently if you enjoy it.
o Wear good shoes that are appropriate for what you're doing. Injuries seriously affect your motivation to exercise. Most people, especially walkers and runners, wear their shoes far too long. Worn out shoes will make you much more prone to injuries.
o Give your colleagues, friends partners compliments about their effort.
o That's really motivating! GO FOR IT!