Fitness

 Stay Motivated

A new exercise program is easy to start. The hard part is sticking with it long enough to see and feel the difference. If you truly want to be more active, these exercise tips may be just the ticket to get you rolling and keep you going.

• Be honest with yourself. Is exercising something you really want to do, or a chore you should do? Motivation and positive attitude are key to success. If you're ready to make a commitment, keep reading...
  
• Set realistic goals. Identify what you want to get out of the program before you start. Before starting, discuss your goals with your doctor or diabetes educator to tailor a program that's right for you. It is better to set three small goals rather than one big goal. Each time you reach a small goal, the satisfaction you feel will spur you on to even greater success.
  
• Choose activities that you like and are convenient. Exercise should be fun. Remember, almost any physical activity can qualify as exercise, even housework. Be creative. Add music to your routine, or move outdoors when you exercise. Even exercise movements performed while sitting in a chair at the office can improve your health and well being.
  
• Make time for you. Set aside a specific time, at least three days a week, and stick to that schedule as closely as possible. Consider it an investment in yourself.
  
• Always warm-up before exercising. Three to five minutes of stretching can help avoid muscle strain and will get your blood flowing.
  
• Don't overdo it. To avoid injury, and burn-out, remember to begin slow and easy, and to increase your activity gradually. Exercising shouldn't hurt. If it does, discuss the situation with your healthcare professional to explore other options.
  
• Get yourself a cheerleader. Spouses, friends and family members can be a great source of motivation on the days you don't feel like exercising. Make sure they understand the difference between encouraging you and nagging you. Even better, find a partner who will exercise with you. Supporting each other, and adding a little friendly competition, might add some fun.
  
• Vary your routine. Alternating the type of workout you do keeps your program new and exciting. It also helps you to work various parts of your body. You can develop an "exercise menu" so you can pick and choose your workouts.
  
• When you drop-out, don't give up. Accept the fact that you may miss a workout now and then. If you do, make it up at a later time. Tell yourself not to give up, and resume your commitment to better health.