How to be motivated to exercise when you don’t feel like it

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How to be motivated to exercise when you don’t feel like it

exercise motivation

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We all know the reasons WHY we need to move our bodies.  It’s good for us. It boosts our mood and our metabolism. It helps us get a better night’s sleep.  The list of good reasons to move our bodies goes on and on.

So, why do we often NOT want to move? 

Below are some of the obstacles to consistent movement and solutions to get you moving again.

1. If you feel bored during your workout...

Do you do the same kind of exercise on the same schedule all the time?  Try mixing it up and doing something completely new and unfamiliar. You’ll challenge your body and your brain.  Get comfortable being uncomfortable!

Try a Rev on the Mat workout or switch it up with kickboxing on RevWellTV!

2. If you don't feel strong/athletic/disciplined enough...

Do you judge yourself according to your fitness tracker?

  “I could have done 100 more steps, or ran that mile faster, or…”. Comparison is the thief of joy.

Try ditching the fitness tracker in a drawer for a few weeks. Focus on what it feels like to find joy in moving your body. Have a crazy dance party in your kitchen or go outside and rake up those beautiful fall leaves.  It doesn’t have to show up on a fitness tracker to count.

3. If you feel like the only good workout is a hard workout

 Do you have the idea that it has to be “hard” for it to count as exercise?

Moving your body doesn’t have to feel like punishment or torture for it to do your body good.  If you’re stuck in this lie like I was, no wonder you don’t have any motivation!

Try something fun and new. Learn to kayak or take the kids to an indoor trampoline park.  Go for a walk with your friends at lunchtime.  Make it fun and watch your motivation soar.

4. If you feel sore and achy...

Do you find yourself with aches and pains or physically exhausted? Maybe your body is trying to tell you it needs some tender loving care. Try swapping your current routine for a restorative Rev on the Mat session. Or take a gentle stroll in the park and breathe in the sights and sounds of God’s creation.

5. If you don't want to workout alone...

Do you find yourself doing better at moving your body with other friends around? Almost everything is better when we do it with someone. Grab a friend or three and make a plan to move your bodies together. Join a local class or meet up to walk and talk in the park. Or get some friends together and do your favorite RevWell TV workouts together.  Community increases your accountability and your enjoyment. Win-win!

These are just a few ways to get motivated to move your body.  Once we’re moving, energy begets energy and helps us keep going.

In the comments below, share your favorite way to generate momentum when your motivation to move is missing.

Michelle is a teacher, artist, and Revelation Wellness Instructor on a mission to move our bodies in gentle and fun ways.  Michelle is also the host of the Simple Steps to Thrive Podcast where she teaches simple and practical tips to trade stressed and overwhelmed for the blessed and beautiful life you desire. She lives in Fort Worth, Texas with her husband and two teenage boys. You can check out her website and podcast or email her!

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8 Responses

  1. mY BIGGEST PROBLEM WITH MOTIVATION IS THAT i HAVE TOO MANY OTHER THINGS TO DO! I ALWAYS PUT MYSELF LAST, OR I THINK THAT I WILL EXERCISE LATER ONCE I GET ALL THIS OTHER STUFF DONE… BUT I NEVER GET IT ALL DONE!

    1. I understand what you mean! It is worth it to make time to exercise and move. Maybe that can be the first thing you do in the morning, then you’ll have energy to do other things!

  2. I love this! Michelle, you are the real deal ! These tips are GOLDEN! I cant agree More & i just love that those thjngs that are fun, can Count!! AbsolUtEly!!

    Your friend,
    Julie t

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