However, I found a way to get through all of it by just keeping myself motivated. Therefore, when you feel like you're losing the motivation you once had to exercise, then it may be time to take a step back and see what motivated you to start the program you're in and what will keep you motivated to continue that program. Here are a few ideas to get you going when you need a good kick in the butt!

  1. Find a partner or a club. Professional athletes do it, and so should you! Everything becomes easier when there's a buddy to help push you along the way. It also holds you accountable. When people expect you to show up for a workout, chances are you'll be there.

  2. Set goals. It's important to have a goal in mind when you start to exercise. It could be to lose a dress size, walk or run a 5K or complete your first triathlon. Whatever your goal maybe, make sure it's realistic. If you've never run before, don't expect to run a marathon in 3 months. Talk to someone about your goals so they can help you set-up a program to meet your goals.

  3. Try something new. Doing the same routine and workout daily can become a burden on your mind and your body. Take the time to think of a new idea and method to accomplish your workout. If it's running or biking, look for a new trail or road to travel. If it's aerobics, try a new class. If it's weight training, mix up your reps or add some cardio to your routine. Making changes to your program will keep your mind interested and it will also allow your body to work harder and to keep burning more calories.

  4. Listen to music. Buy yourself a cheap mp3 player or Ipod and have fun! Music will definitely take your mind off the effort of working out and on a lot of days, it will motivate you to stay out a little bit longer, just to hear that next song that just came on..

  5. Keep a log. Keeping a calendar that you write your workouts on right by your refrigerator or your front door reminds you to exercise. I hate seeing empty days on my calendar.

  6. Race results. If you compete in any race, remember that most results are available to anyone online. There's no escaping Google anymore!

  7. Feeling Good. After any workout or race, you'll always feel much better when you're finished..

  8. Looking ahead. Don't you want to look and feel great as you move into the next year? Here's your chance to start working out and getting into a great routine!

  9. Find time. All you need is one hour. Find a time everyday where you can fit in a 1 hour workout. Remember, if you don't have time for 1 hour, 15 minutes or a ½ hour is better than nothing.

  10. Be realistic. Don't try to be a superstar athlete on the first day or if you feel it's out of reach right now. Build up with baby steps and soon enough you'll be much further than you ever thought.

  11. Buy new shoes. Having the right equipment is so important. Make sure you have the right shoes for the workout you plan to do. The shoes are everything. If you have the wrong shoes, you will be in pain, you'll get injured, or you'll just be uncomfortable. All of these will lead to you not reaching your goal.

  12. Buy some new workout clothes. Remember, the better you feel, the more you'll want to workout. Continually update your workout gear, especially as you lose weight. Show off your new body and be proud of it.

  13. Look at who you spend time with. Surround yourself with people who have the same goals and enjoy the same activities you enjoy. By doing this, you'll all be competing to do more and to get into better shape while having fun and making new friends.

  14. Getting fit is just outside your front door. Don't think you need to belong to a fancy health club to get into shape. Your front door is your best friend to get you fit again. Weather it's Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall, there is always something amazing to see and explore outside your front door. I enjoy every season. Running during a new snow fall, cycling when the trees are just starting to blossom, getting in an outdoor swim on a hot summer day or going for a long walk or run in Autumn when the leaves are changing. Each time of year has something to offer. Enjoy the gifts God gives to us everyday by walking out your front door and enjoying some fresh air and all the beauty that surrounds us.