Find Your Motivation to Exercise: Setting Small Goals Will Get You Started
Getting into a workout routine and adopting a healthier lifestyle begins with taking that first step. But staying motivated to exercise can be challenging. One marathon runner suggests focusing on small, attainable goals to keep yourself on track. Aubrey Barr, a 56-year-old athlete from Massachusetts, has completed 40 marathons over the past three decades and will be running her 41st marathon next month. Despite facing severe health issues since childhood, Barr discovered the mental and physical strength that running brought her. Starting with a simple walk and gradually progressing to brisk walking and jogging, Barr found that setting small goals gave her the motivation she needed to continue.
In addition to Barr’s personal experience, exercise science experts and running coaches also recommend a gradual approach to running. Doing too much too soon can lead to burnout and injury. It’s important to listen to your body and start with short, light workouts, gradually increasing intensity and distance over time. This steady progress will prevent workouts from feeling like a chore and help you stay motivated and injury-free.
While there are countless high-tech tools available to track progress and optimize performance, Barr suggests not getting too caught up in the data. Instead, focus on finding joy in your own pace and letting go of the need to beat previous times. This mindset shift can make running more enjoyable and sustainable in the long run.
Community is another crucial element of staying motivated to exercise. Barr emphasizes the importance of finding a supportive community, such as a running club, where you can connect with fellow enthusiasts and share experiences. Additionally, having a workout buddy can significantly increase accountability and motivation.
To combat feelings of fatigue or lack of motivation, Barr suggests prioritizing what you enjoy about exercise. By focusing on the feelings of joy and accomplishment that come during or after a workout, you can push through doubts and stay committed to your goals.
Lastly, Barr encourages individuals to listen to their bodies. Starting with just three minutes of exercise or a small number of steps can help you ease into a routine without overwhelming yourself. If you’re still tired by the end, it’s okay to take a rest day. It’s important to know when to push yourself and when to adjust your workouts to prevent burnout and injury.
Ultimately, finding your motivation to exercise requires a combination of setting small goals, listening to your body, enjoying the process, and finding support within a community. By taking these steps, you can stay motivated and committed to leading a healthier, more active lifestyle.
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