Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, January 17, 1995 TAG: 9501180029
SECTION: EXTRA PAGE: 1 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: LEE ANN BROUSSARD
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
What is the key to motivating people to begin exercise and then successfully stick with it?
A nationwide survey commissioned by the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports and the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association looked at American attitudes toward physical activity and fitness.
The survey found that the single greatest motivator to exercise was a desire to improve one's health. The second most popular reason to exercise was to improve one's quality of life. This included the desire to reduce stress and increase strength and energy.
Other common reasons for exercising included wanting to improve the shape of one's body, counteract sagging, boost self-image, increase morale, lose or control weight and maintain physical fitness. Motivation was notably increased in individuals who received some education about the benefits of exercise.
Here are some common characteristics found in individuals who stick with their exercise programs:
They enjoy being physically active.
They are highly self-motivated.
They have a positive attitude toward exercise.
They have a high level of knowledge about exercise and health.
They are aware of the benefits of exercise.
They have support groups for encouragement and reinforcement.
They make exercise a priority in their daily schedules.
They've participated in exercise or sports in the past.
And here are some tips on increasing the likelihood of sticking to an exercise program:
Find a workout buddy. Both you and your partner should be reliable and committed to sticking with the program.
Exercise moderately. Regular exercise at a low-to-moderate intensity seems to be adhered to best. Try to pace yourself, listen to your body and challenge your body gradually. This will help prevent overly sore muscles and burnout.
Set short-term goals. Try to stay focused on the process of physical exercise rather than the end result. Reward yourself each time you attain a small goal. Follow each of your successes with new challenges.
Change your thinking. Keeping the benefits of exercise requires regular participation. Healthy physical activity is a lifestyle, not something you do just until a desired result is achieved.
Keep an exercise journal. Record your exercise sessions by writing down the activity, time spent and your perception of its intensity, as well as your attitude and feelings toward it. This will help you monitor your progress.
Make a list of obstacles you encounter. It is important to have a strategy for times when you fall back and relapse into an old pattern or habit. Take the time to develop a plan to prevent and overcome setbacks.
Keep a positive attitude. Focus on all the benefits of exercising. Be proud of your newly gained strength, energy, productivity, confidence and improved lifestyle.
Vary your activities. Integrate many activities that you enjoy into your exercise program. Having options keeps you from becoming bored or burned out. Cross-training not only changes your workout scenery, but increases your physical fitness and reduces the risk of injury.
Make exercise a priority. Schedule exercise into your daily routine by making an appointment with yourself. Treat these appointments as seriously as you would any other appointment. Only you can take responsibility for your health. You deserve it!
Keep a balanced perspective. Wellness involves more than exercise. Eating properly, coping with stress and getting sufficient rest are also important ingredients to your physical being. It is important to find a healthy balance between your physical, spiritual, mental, social and emotional self.
It is never too late to make a healthy change for the better. Dr. Stephen Covey, author of ``The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People,'' puts it best. He said, ``We have the choice to choose; to be responsible for our own lives and health, and take the initiative. Effective people truly lead their own lives.'' When are you going to make exercise a part of your life?
Lee Ann Broussard is a personal trainer and professional fitness consultant and instructor who writes for the Knight-Ridder/Tribune news service.
by CNB