“People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing – that’s why we recommend it daily.” -Zig Ziglar

Motivation is a peculiar thing; some days you have an endless supply of it, and others, just getting off the couch seems like a small victory in itself. You see all these motivational quotes on your twitter feed, right next to the post that says, “I would get off the couch, but this is my favorite show.” With such conflicting statements floating around, it isn’t surprising that finding the motivation to get in shape or hit the gym is so difficult. Why wake up early to run when those extra minutes of sleep are so tempting? Well to start, the endorphins you produce while exercising are hormones in the brain associated with a happy, positive feeling. By creating a routine that you follow rigorously, getting out the door will become less of a mental travesty.

The common saying “misery loves company” is true in regards to working out; taking a friend to the gym or on a run with you will boost your motivation as well as theirs. When you have a group to train with, like the Jack Quinn’s running group downtown, the company of others will get you out the door. Jack Quinn’s meets downtown every Tuesday, alluring hundreds of people looking for company; who would’ve guessed running could be a social occasion too? If running isn’t your forte, there are different means of exercising, like working the elliptical, hiking, and mountain biking. Find a method of working out that you enjoy and then develop a routine that works for you.

“Persistence can change failure into an extraordinary achievement,” -Matt Biondi.

Whether you are striving to finish your first 5k, or set a personal record, persistence is the key to success, as Matt Biondi so clearly defined. Set a goal and work to achieve it; with a concrete goal written down, then all your hard work has a purpose. If you set small objectives that lead to an overarching goal, then the process won’t seem as daunting. Throw in little rewards after each step is reached so that you feel motivated to reach the next one; when you accomplish your final goal, celebrate, reevaluate, and dedicate yourself to a new, harder goal. The feeling of self-satisfaction you get when a goal is achieved will encourage you to keep moving forward.

If you regularly work-out, but just cannot seem to elevate yourself to the next level, remember, “Greatness is a series of small things, done well,” -Muhammad Ali. This is my personal, favorite quote because it is a constant reminder that in order to be great, you must first dedicate yourself entirely to the cause. Try picking up a salad instead of a hotdog, have the dedication to consistently run or hit the gym, and don’t just go through the motions once you get there. Having self-motivation is undoubtedly the hardest attribute to acquire, because in most cases, your greatest enemy lies between your own two ears.

Whether you’re just out for fun or you have some serious goals set, working out is a great way to relax, burn off last night’s double chocolate chip cake, and spend time with friends. Have fun while you’re out there so the work doesn’t seem so foreboding and no matter how slow or fast, you’re still lapping everyone on the couch. Have a happy, healthy day Kadets.

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