3 Ways to Stick to Your Fitness Program

It’s human nature to not do something, even something that’s good for you, if no one is going to hold us accountable.  For me, I always fail at keeping a journal, even though there are numerous benefits, because no one holds me accountable if I don’t do it.

The same can be true for our fitness goals.  If no one holds us accountable for working out, then it’s easy to fall off.  So what are some ways to make sure you’re held accountable?

1. Tell your friends and family, and ask for their support.  Let everyone know you’re starting a workout plan.  Post it to Facebook, Twitter, etc.  You’ll get questions from your friends about how the program is going, which will motivate you to keep working so you can give a positive answer rather than admitting to falling off.  Even more than friends, studies have shown that having a positive attitude from and the support of your close family and spouse will increase your ability to stick with your exercise program.  Explain that to your loved ones, that you need positive feedback and encouragement from them to help you reach your goal.
2. Find a work out partner – Knowing that someone is waiting on you at the gym will motivate you to go so you don’t leave your work out pal hanging.  Going back to point 1, involve a close friend or family member to work out with.  If you can’t get a workout partner there, then ask a trainer at your local gym if there is anyone else of similar fitness goals who might be interested in a work out partner.
3. Use apps – There are a few apps on the market geared to helping you stick with your exercise program, but one I recommend is Pact.  Basically, you make a pact to go to the gym three times a week.  For each work out you miss, you get charged $5 (or more, depending on what you want to bet).  If you make the pact for the week, then you get paid, usually about $0.70 each week.  The real key here is the motivation you get from not wanting to lose $5, which will make you get to gym and work out!

Whatever method you use, make sure to have an accountability plan in place to help you stick with your exercise program.