My Fitness

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Keys to Exercise Motivation

Now that you've settled in to a new academic semester, it's time to either start getting back to a normal exercise schedule or implement a new one. Hopefully, it hasn't been a long time since you last worked out, but don't fret - get moving. If it has, it's time to get motivated again. With the following suggestions, exercise can be a more enjoyable time of the day.

• Have a pre-set schedule for the week
• Aerobic classes
• Bring a buddy to the gym
• Buy new workout clothes you'll want to show off
• Give yourself a treat if you've gone to the gym all week
• Sign up for an event that you would need to train for
• Create a jar and put 50 cents in it each time you workout. Once you reach $10-15, buy a new workout CD or outfit
• Buy a new CD to workout with
• Read a fitness magazine and do a suggested workout
• Switch between 2 machines for 15 minutes each

If you are just beginning after a long time off, start slow. By being too active, too soon many people sabotage their new lifestyle. Remember start with 2-3 days/week of 10-30 minutes. In time, add more days/week or more time/session.

If you are returning to active after a short layoff, variety and intensity are two key terms to your exercise program. Checkout the new KU Fit class schedule and take a different type of class. Increase the resistance on the elliptical or bike. Increase the incline on the treadmill for walking/running or if outdoors choose a route with hills.

If you start to get bored, change what you are doing. Don't give up. Regular exercise can relieve stress, increase your energy, and make you feel better about yourself.

Remember short lapses of inactivity are not failures, just challenges to overcome. Make the decision to overcome theses challenges and you can't fail.