Motivation to Exercise

Excuses:
Isn't it so easy to say you're headed straight for the gym when you get home from work while you're sitting in the 7am rush hour? Have you ever looked out the window at the rain and said "Well, it's raining, so I will have to push my 3 mile run until tomorrow." Yet whenever that moment arrives, another excuse replaces the old. How can we motivate ourselves in such times?

A Motivational Tip:
Motivation is key to maintaining a healthy exercise regime. I am an active runner. While training for the Chicago Marathon, I had many days in which my motivation was lacking. The last thing I wanted to do was run. I found reading a great way to get myself motivated when my energy was low. I would pick up my "Runner's World" magazine and read an article or two. Before I knew it, I wanted to get out the door and be just like the runners I read about. Use a magazine or internet article to remind you of your goal. This will push you out the door.

Workout Buddy:
Another awesome way to get motivated is a workout buddy. On days when you feel like mopping around, it's great to have a friend call you up for a night at the gym. The social aspect of the gym helps individuals get out the door. A work out becomes more fun. Join a gym that your good friends belong to, and before you know it, you wont have to motivate yourself everyday. Your friends will do that for you.