How to Get Motivated to Work Out: The Proven Tips

For years, I didn’t have the habit of working out. Then one day I decided to start building the habit and now I’m glad to say that I work out almost every day.

So how can we get motivated to work out?

The starting point, I believe, is internalizing the benefits. The more you internalize the benefits, the more motivated you will be.

Here are the benefits you will get from working out:

  • Energy
    Personally, this is the benefit that I like the most. Since I spent years not exercising, I can attest to the difference it makes. Exercise gives me more energy throughout the day. It results in more enthusiasm and better focus.
    For this to happen, I suggest you exercise in the morning. That way you will get the energy you need for the rest of the day.
  • Improved Self-Control
    Studies show that exercise can help you build self-control. In The Power of Habit, it’s mentioned that exercise is a keystone habit, which means that building this habit can help you build other good habits.
  • Happiness
    When you have more enthusiasm and self-control, you will increase your happiness. I can say from experience that working out is a good way to lift your mood.
  • Long-Term Health
    Working out is essential for maintaining good health. There are so many health risks that can be reduced if you make working out a habit.

In addition to the benefits above, you can use your exercise time for learning. Bill Gates, for instance, uses his exercise sessions to watch video lectures. I use mine to listen to podcasts. It’s a good way to build your knowledge without taking extra time.

Some Tips on Getting Started

Having seen the benefits of working out, here are some tips on getting started:

1. Start Small

I almost fainted when I first tried to run. I had to lay myself down on the side of the road for a few minutes! I learned a lesson from the experience: start small. Don’t be too ambitious, because you might overestimate your ability. Just start small and build from there.

2. Make It a Priority

In the Eisenhower Matrix, working out is a quadrant II activity. That means the activity is important but not urgent. Since it’s not urgent, it’s easy to get overridden by other things. So make time for it. Make it a priority.

3. Make It Easy

Make it as easy as possible for you to work out. In my case, I work out at home, so I don’t have the excuse of being too lazy to go to the gym. In your case, you might decide to work out with friends if the peer pressure makes it easier for you to do it.

4. Make It Fun

If it’s fun, it’s more likely that you will do it for the long run. You might want to use a habit tracker to give you a sense of accomplishment. Or you might just have fun doing it with your friends.

5. Set a Routine

Don’t make it complicated to work out. If you need to constantly think about what to do next, you might stop working out before long. So set a routine. In my case, I have a set of activities that I’ve been doing for years. Many people use the 7-minute workout. The important thing is that you make it “automatic.”

6. Use an Activity Tracker

If you want to, you can use an activity tracker to keep yourself motivated. There are many gadgets out there that can track your activities and give you real-time reports. Apple Watch, for instance, allows you to set a daily goal and give you a report on how you are doing.

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Internalize the benefits and apply the tips above, and I’m sure you will be motivated to work out.

Any thoughts? Feel free to share them in the comments.

17 Comments

  1. GREGORY OMOREFE
    GREGORY OMOREFE

    Thanks Donald..so glad hearing from you.God bless.

  2. Thank you.

  3. hie Donald

    Ionce did some work out through motivation from my kids then i stopped because of some programme that took my time .My husband tried this week to revive i felt motivated though .i hope i will do again

  4. Thank you Sir for your inspiring, educative,motivative,and investment writings has helped me to start an enterpreneurship activity in my locality. Thank you Sir. God bless you so so much.

  5. Owen Michael Allen
    Owen Michael Allen

    G’day Donald,
    I haven’t read much on the internet lately or replied, but I will continue to follow your work, God Willing. I have replied to you several times and you have returned. More than once I have said your message has been exactly what I need to read at that time. You know I am coming out of a dark place and on a mission for Jesus. Once again I can’t believe this message, now.
    I started training only 5 weeks ago, changed my dietary habits 6 weeks ago.
    I am seeing physical results and emotional mind results.
    My muscles are screaming for more work and my mind is screaming for action.
    I am far from healed, but definitely on the way.
    A good soldier needs physical fitness and strength, and emotional and spiritual well being.
    Onward Christian Soldiers.
    Thanks Donald, God Bless You and Your Work.

  6. Beautiful. This is what I exactly do routinely. Thank you!

  7. Great motivational article. I like your idea of Make it fun. This way we can easily lower our stress about the workout. Often I found myself procrastinating when it comes to workout, but after reading your post, I will try to change some of my habits and this will definitely help me to live healthier and happier life.

  8. Hi Donald,
    I really enjoy your articles.
    With regards to article on making working out a lifetime habit, I can attest first hand to the impact this can have in your life.
    In September of 2016 my wife and I were asked to take care of my nephew, age 24, who was struggling with his personal health and mental health.
    He was very obese and weighed 450 lbs. at that time.
    We introduced him to a healthier diet and the importance of working out.
    He gradually developed the habit of going for good long walk for at least 20 minutes every single day.
    As of December 27, 2017 he has lost over 200 lbs. without the need for any surgery, and now weighs 245lbs. The change has been amazing.
    He has also seen a major improvement in his mental health and self image.

    I am in my early 60’s now and as a result of working out on a regular basis, I am still able play competitive soccer with players much younger than myself. Regards,
    Kevin

  9. Thanks for the tips, they’re really good. Sometimes my energy and motivation drops and I start to want to drop everything … Thank you for the Motivation!

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