When Traditional Motivational Strategies Fail by Vicki R. Pierson, ACE Certified Personal Trainer

Numerous people have asked me how I stay motivated to workout on a regular basis. After I espouse all the traditional motivational tips, which should be enough to make us all don our workout clothes and work up a good sweat, I’m compelled to add my last resort-- pure determination! I’m no different from anyone else. There are days when I need to workout, but I simply can’t muster the motivation to get my rear in gear. At those times, I look inward and draw from my pure determination to get myself moving.

I’m convinced that determination is what separates fitness as a 'lifestyle' from fitness as a 'hobby.' Personally, if I view working out or weight training as a hobby then I’m only going to do it when I feel like it. Defining something as a hobby implies an activity that’s done in your spare time because you enjoy it. This definition doesn’t completely work for me where fitness is concerned. Yes, I truly enjoy the benefits of fitness! However, I don’t always enjoy the activity required to attain those benefits. Consequently, my workout can easily get pushed down on my priority list, next to cleaning the tile in my shower.

Viewing fitness as a lifestyle has completely changed my mental programming. Working out is an integral component of my life. Let’s face it, when something becomes part of your lifestyle you do it whether you feel like it or not. It becomes a necessity. You know-- like breathing!

I caution you not to mentally program yourself to be obsessive either. Find the middle ground. Enjoying a few days off from working out is healthy, your body needs it. I’ve found working out 4-5 days per week is a good balance for me. You’ll need to find your balance as well, and once you do, make it a part of your lifestyle. On those occasions when it’s time to workout and you’re completely devoid of motivation-- look inward and draw from your pure determination!