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The hardest part about physical activity often is getting started — putting on your shoes and getting out the door to walk, jog, bicycle or to do whatever form of exercise or activity works for you.
Finding an exercise partner or group is one way to help with getting started. With a partner or group, there's a sense of accountability and support, and there's the motivation of not wanting to let your exercise friends down. A pet that needs daily exercise is a good motivator, as well!
In addition, positive self-talk is a way for you to overcome any hesitation when you’re deciding whether or not to exercise, particularly when getting out on your own.
Positive self-talk examples include:
How do you motivate yourself to exercise? Leave a comment or join the conversation on "Staying with it for the long haul" in our Healthy Living group.
Want some positive self-talk for your overall heath? Try a subscription to Mayo Clinic Health Letter.
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Because I get a lot of pleasure from looking at things as I walk [no earbuds or phone for me!], it is easy to convince myself to get outside and go for a walk. Watching trees change color now that cooler temps are here helps. As is the fact that I do feel better afterwards!
Ginger
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1 ReactionWalking outdoors is just great this time of year. The weather is cooler and it is nice to see people out with their pets walking along. Even though you might not know your fellow walkers by name, there is a feeling of camaraderie that develops as you walk and smile at others along the path.
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1 Reactioni am not sure why but I have never had to motivate myself to invest in my own health. Daily exercise is never an issue. It is simply a habit. It is part and parcel to who I am. I could channel my father and get some negative talk (So you had a heart transplant. BFD. Get your a** up and get busy.) I do agree that variety helps. I do crunches, stretching, a little weight lifting, more resistance bands, walking, biking, and an elliptical trainer. I do track my steps and calories and watch my long term trends in a little self competition.
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1 ReactionTeresa, you and Ginger (above) both nailed it. I walk a neighborhood with lots of other walkers, especially young people with dogs. I’m a lean, fit octogenarian and enjoy massaging my narcissism imagining that the “youngsters” notice and admire it. Don
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1 ReactionOh! Can’t leave out Scottie.
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