by Martin Heflin

Created on: October 26, 2009

So you have crossed the threshold from couch potato to beginning athlete. You have begun losing weight, your midsection is tightening up and some colleagues at work have asked why you look younger. Still, you have those days...you know, you are simply not in the mood to pack up the gym bag or lace up the Nikes to head out the door. Here are five tips to help you get motivated before you work out.

First, reflect on the benefits. You recognize that you now can clamber up the stairs to the office without being breathless at the top - this is s a benefit of your hard work! Savor some of the compliments you have received - think about that last high school reunion where several people remarked that you hadn't changed a bit. How about that last physical you had where your doctor remarked that you had the cholesterol level of a 12 year old? Working out has it's rewards, remind yourself of that and get going!

Second, as you start to pull out your gym shorts, put on some motivational music. If you plan to put in an extended aerobic workout, you might want to stay away from some hard pumping AC/DC - that's better suited for a weight lifting day; but a nice mix of some Bruce Springsteen and the Eagles might do the trick. Music inspires us, it lifts the soul and can be just the trigger you need to help you get in gear.

Third, think about changing your routine. If you are a gym rat that does the elliptical for an hour followed by some reps in the weight room, think about taking a 45 minute run through the neighborhood and getting some fresh air. If you are a loner who loves running the same 7 mile loop day in and day out, consider taking a spin class at the local gym. Changing the routine will not only enhance your overall fitness, it will inspire you to shake the cobwebs off and get going.

Fourth, get a training companion. Either a two-legged or a the four-legged kind will do. Partner up with a cohort from the office. It will deepen your relationship with that individual, and both of you will be inspired to keep working out. It's much harder to quit when someone else is depending on you! If you are that aforementioned loner, think about getting a dog. Check with your veterinarian on the proper breed, but most dogs from beagles to Irish wolf hounds love to run. They are relying on you to keep them fit and that's another reason for you to head out that door!

Fifth, consider a rest day. None of us can go full tilt boogie day in and day out. If you just put in a tough half century on your road bike the day before, your body may need a little time to adjust. Take a day off from the strength training and the aerobic work and maybe try a yoga or stretching routine. Sometimes we plateau in a routine. Those are the times to step back for a day before pushing through to the next level.

Follow these steps and you will continue to experience the joy that comes with using your body to its potential and becoming the athlete you should be.

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