Are you having trouble finding motivation to work out? Or maybe you are out of ideas and out of a workout buddy? Founder of Identity Magazine, Susan Vernicek shares the secret ingredients to your workout routine!
By Susan Vernicek
We are in the middle of summer and I know I may be late to the game on summer fitness articles, but guess what? This isn’t a “get fit for summer” type of article or a “how to have your summer body” article. This is about motivation for your daily life.
Do you ever wonder how fitness enthusiasts motivate themselves to stay fit and continue to be active?
– Do they workout alone?
– Do they workout with a friend?
– Do they belong to a group like the latest, trendy crossfit groups?
– Do they naturally believe in daily routines?
What is this cool aid that all these fitness enthusiasts are all drinking?
These enthusiasts all have their own motivators and there is endless inspiration out there to motivate each and every one of us. And there is no right or wrong way to get motivated, that I know for sure. I also know it starts with digging within yourself a little to find a passion and a spark to light you up.
I know for me it takes a workout buddy. There are times I like to work out alone. I know what activities I enjoy doing alone, but for the most part, I love working out with somebody else.
Since I’ve moved, I haven’t found another “human” workout buddy, but I did find a workout buddy in my pet – my amazing dog Missy! For a while, I fought with my husband about getting another pet because we don’t have time to take care of a pet. He begged and begged, so naturally I caved.
After I saw Missy, our new American Bulldog, it was love at first sight. I also realized that I now had a workout buddy. Ha, go figure! Dogs need exercise too, especially an American Bulldog. So you never know when, who, or what will come into your life when you least expect it.
So, maybe it’s not a pet you need or want to help you out, but get creative and think outside the box.
Are you ready to stop making excuses and start being more consistent with your workout schedule?
Here are a few tips to get you started:
1. Ask around — Put it out there that you are looking for a workout buddy because you won’t find one if you don’t ask.
2. Start with a trainer — If you have the extra money, invest in a trainer to get you started.
3. Get a dog — It worked for me! Do research for an active dog to take for walks, hikes and jogs.
4. Create your playlist — Download the music that makes you move and start creating your workout playlists. Music is a great motivator.
5. Start small — Remember to start small and easy. Go at your own pace so that you don’t give up.
Don’t give up on yourself! You deserve the best and there are so many ways to get fit and live a healthier lifestyle. You just have to open your eyes and be inspired.
Identity Magazine is all about empowering women to get all A’s in the game of life — Accept. Appreciate. Achieve.TM Every contributor and expert answer the Identity 5 questions in keeping with our theme. As a team, we hope to inspire and motivate ourselves and inspire you to get all A’s.
What have you accepted in your life that took time, physically or mentally?
From this situation I have learned to accept the daily challenge of making the choice. The choice to get up and move, the choice to be consistent as much as I can. I’ve learned to accept that if I miss a day, it’s OK and I’ve learned not to be so hard on myself.
What do you appreciate about yourself and within your life?
What I appreciated most in this situation is that I am active and enjoy being active. I’m lucky to have that on my side. I love to hike, walk, run, kayak, etc.
What is one of your most rewarding achievements in life? What goals do you still have?
I’ve achieved lots and continue to, its part of my personality and my drive. I am extremely proud that I have been in business since 2006 and push myself further each day. I would still like to achieve running some fun marathons, like the Color Run, Mud Run, etc.
What is your not-so-perfect way? What imperfections and quirks create your Identity?
I don’t know how to relax. Most of the time I feel like I have got to keep moving. Why watch TV when I can get this done or that done.
How would you complete the phrase “I Love My…?”
I love my energy!
