Why is it so hard to stick to a workout routine? Because we're not working out for the right reasons, say researchers. Scientists at London Metropolitan University found that people stopped going to the gym after three to six months if they were doing it to lose weight or look better. Those who stuck with it: They had internal motivations, like less stress or liking the buzz they got from a cardio routine. Some other things to consider:
- Find your favorites. Exercise is a lot less tedious if you actually like what you're doing. And you can further stack the deck in your favor by choosing a routine that enhances your overall sense of well-being. So figure out what makes you zen, and do that.
- Double date. Team up with another person for at least one workout per week, says Thomas Plante, chair of the psychology department at Santa Clara University. His study found that people who exercised with a partner were calmer and had more energy than those who went it alone.
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- Get a trainer (aka a cheerleader). Ok, this one can be expensive. But it's worth considering at least splitting one with a friend. Not only will the encouragement from a pro help you feel more confident, people who workout with a trainer tent to try harder, persist longer, and stick to their program better, says Kathleen Martin Ginis, a professor of health and exercise at McMaster University in Ontario.
- Change your view. Anytime you start to feel bored, switch up your routine: go to a different gym location, try a new class, switch from one cardio machine to another (like from a bike to an elliptical trainer). It doesn't take much to spice things up.
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