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1. Make a promise
It’s hard to cancel a commitment you’ve made to lots of people. “Join an athletic event to raise money so if you default on training, you’re not just letting yourself down, but also the charity and everyone who sponsored you,” says Dr Daniel Hammer, author of Peak Energy.
Read more: Exactly how to find the right exercise for your goals
2. Rock out
A recent study by the North American Association for the Study of Obesity found that women are more likely to stick to an exercise programme if they listen to music when working out. Try Virgin Active’s Pound workout – it’s the world’s first cardio jam session inspired by the infectious, sweat-dripping fun of playing the drums. Besides rockin’ out, you’ll burn kilojoules, strengthen and sculpt those muscles and drum your way to a leaner, slimmer physique – all while jamming to your favourite music!
3. Get your money’s worth
Buy a package of personal training sessions, yoga or dance classes and schedule all your appointments now. Or join FitKey and book all your classes in advance. If you don’t show up, you could be charged the full amount – definite motivation to get to class!
Read more: 6 tricks that will help you to fire up your willpower
4. Look in the mirror
A study in the International Journal of Eating Disorders found that staring at your body in the mirror and stifling the usual criticisms can improve your body image, which can keep you committed to healthy eating. Avoid using any negatively charged words. For example, instead of saying to yourself, “I have a huge bum,” say, “My waist looks small thanks to my curves.”
5. Become a regular
Join a group exercise class or running club and make friends with fellow regulars. Seeing your mates will inspire you to attend even when you’d rather stay at home. The guilt factor can help here too. After all, in a place where everybody knows your name, they’ll also know when you’ve missed a workout. Busted! Try a Red Sock Run or go to ParkRun.co.za to find your closest running group.
Read more: 9 pairs of sneakers that will make you want to work out this winter
6. Get a cheer squad
Surround yourself with people who’ll encourage you. A study by the University of NSW in Australia found that overweight people are more likely to avoid exercise if their loved ones tease them. So ditch the downers and you might ditch a few kilos too.
This article was originally published on www.womenshealthsa.co.za
Image credit: iStock
