It is that time of year again when we all take some time to make our New Year's Resolution.  Many of us will resolve to start an exercise program in 2010.  Patients often ask me for some tips to stay motivated to stick with their exercise program.  Below are seven tips from Exercise Physiologist Greg Landry to help you get motivated and stay motivated to exercise:

1. Know the benefits of exercise. We are more motivated to do things that we'll benefit from. The more we benefit, the more motivated we are. You will benefit tremendously from consistent exercise. For many people, that's very motivating!
2. Create your personal "reasons list." Keep a piece of paper and pen handy for a couple of days. Jot down EVERY reason you can think of that you want to get healthy/get fit/lose weight through consistent exercise, such as:
   • more energy to spend quality time with family
   • to be able to fit into the clothes in your closet
   • to be able to live a long, healthy life and to enjoy time with your children, significant other, and grandchildren
   • to not be uncomfortable in public
   • to not become breathless climbing stairs
   • to be able to do "active" things with your family and friends
   • your doctor suggested it

Take time to make your list. Make a long, extensive list. This may not seem important, but it is critical to be able to read this list when your motivation to exercise is waning. It's a powerful way to quickly get "re-motivated"!

3. Exercise with a friend. Statistics tell us that people who exercise with a friend are more successful at exercising consistently.
4. Exercise first thing in the morning.
5. Train for an event like a local 5K or 10K walk or run in your area. This can be great motivation to exercise on a regular basis.
6. Reward yourself! Find a non-food item that you can use as a reward, for example, a new pair of running or walking shoes.

Keep records. Write down your exercise time (minutes) each day.  Keep a running total for the month and year. Calculate your average exercise time per day. Set some lofty goals!