Can’t find the motivation to drag yourself to another aerobics class? To a jog around the park? To another gym workout? The couch and TV beckons?
You know you shouldn't even think of not exercising. What you should do is re-think how you work out.
The no pain, no gain mentality is out. Exercise should not be a torture. Moderation is what's in and it's time to ask yourself what's fun and what makes you smile.
High intensity exercises increases your propensity to injuries. You can burn as much calories by walking, dancing or jumping rope. The key is to finding an activity that you want to do every day and fits your schedule.
Moderate physical activity burns off calories, tones your muscles and produces "happy" endorphins. When you're having fun, you become less conscious of actual calories that you're burning, and more into actually enjoying the workout.
If you're a person who likes company, find a friend to join you on a walk or bike ride, or join a class that is social, maybe meeting up for coffee afterwards. This way you're not only working out, but connecting with friends and having fun.
Get out of the gym and into nature. Plan a weekend trip to a beautiful place where you'll be motivated to be more active than usual, whether it's for a day hike at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, swimming at Sentosa, or going skating or biking at East Coast Park.
It's also important not to be too rigid in your workout routine. That can really spoil the fun and will only burn you out in the long run. Instead, keep it simple by fitting something in that fits with your schedule. A badminton or tennis group that meets regularly means you don't have to constantly think about it. It just becomes a part of your routine.
Remember, overhauls are not necessary as small changes in your diet and lifestyle can go a long way. Here are some ever-handy tips.
Reach for water - Replace one sugary drink a day, like a 250-calorie Coke or a 200-calorie sweetened iced tea, with a glass of water.
Start with cereal - people who consumed high-fiber breakfasts ate less after breakfast and at lunch than those who chose low-fiber, high-fat breakfasts.
Pick up weight - Adding a little weight to your walk helps you burn extra calories.
Skip the elevator - Aim to take the stairs at least three times every day.
Make outings active - Instead of arranging restaurant dinner dates, meet friends or family for a walk or to go bowling.
You'll find that if you're having fun, and enjoying yourself, it's actually a great way to have more energy and enthusiasm for other areas in your life. Being fit and happy helps you to be better prepared for another hectic project!