What Motivates You?

According to Rod K. Dishman, Ph.D., director of the Behavioral Fitness Laboratory at the University of Georgia, nearly 50 percent of people who begin an exercise program drop out within the first 6 months. "Why?" What is it about sticking with a fitness routine that causes so many people to abandon it?

The answer is motivation. They don't want health and fitness badly enough. It is a simple fact of human psychology that if we want something badly enough, we will do everything to get it. You don't have to be part of that 50 percent who quit, your challenge is to find out what motivates you to get serious about fitness and stick with it.

Here are some possible motivators for you:

Do it for your health - consistent exercise and healthy eating are the two best things you can do for your health. You will develop a strong healthy heart, prevent diabetes, keep a sharp mind and reduce many of the common ailments that come with ageing.

Do it to look better - Most of us care about how we look. A strong and healthy person looks good and it isn't all physical. Your demeanour will change as you develop the confidence that comes from the discipline of fitness; you will feel more energetic and confident!

Do it to relieve stress - Exercising does cause physical changes in your brain and nervous system that results in feelings of calmness and well-being.

Do it to be strong - If you have never done focused weight training, then you literally have no idea of the total transformation that you feel after just a few weeks. You will gain a stronger core and balance.

It is worth taking the time to discover the powerful motivators in your life; do what it takes to get moving.

FIND OUT WHAT MOTIVATES YOU!