Whether you live in warm or cold climate, keeping your motivation to exercise is essential to losing weight. If you kept moving throughout the year – Congratulations! Many people lose motivation during fall or winter. No matter what time of year, these 4 tips below will help keep your motivation high.

(1) Write down on paper the exact time you plan to exercise

One the best way to increase exercise motivation is to state your goals. By putting your schedule on paper, you have a plan to exercise. A simple 30 minute walk at home, during your lunch break or after work will give you plenty of exercise and help you lose weight.

(2) Plan your exercise that best fits your schedule

Most people state they are too busy to exercise but that is really a cop out. Saying you are too busy to exercise is like saying you do not have time to care for your body and If you do not care for your body, your body will not care for you….. i.e. you gain weight (lots of weight), feel sluggish and often become sick. These are all symptoms of neglecting your body. Only you can decide the best time to slip into the health club for a 30 minute treadmill session or just take a simple walk. You can even plan your workout during weekends and add 1 extra day during the week.

(3) Combine a sensible diet with exercise for better motivation

The way to lose weight is to burn more calories than you take in. Regular exercise helps you burn more calories and combined with a good diet plan that limits calorie intake, you will see the weight come off. There is no better motivation to exercise than to see the weight come off week after week and month after month.

(4) Vary your exercise routine if necessary

A change of pace or new exercise will help you to stay disciplined. Are you just starting your summer exercise routine? Focus on losing the first five (5) pounds. Taking weight off in small increments will boost your self-esteem and give you permission to make adjustments in your diet when needed.

Tired of your strength training exercises? Need a little motivation and support? Grab a few friends and start a training program for a 10K walk-a-thon. Many charities need your help and you will lose weight just by showing your support for a great cause. Join a tribal or ethnic dance class, take water aerobics or learn to swim.