Starting an exercise routine can be easy, with the right motivation.
For people with diabetes, exercise can help manage blood glucose levels, reduce weight and improve cardiovascular health.
But sticking with your exercise routine ““ month after month after month ““ can be challenging.
Here are some tips from the American Diabetes Association for staying motivated about staying active:
- Talk to yourself ““ and be positive. The right words go a long way toward helping you stick with your fitness routine. Don’t be shy about laying on the praise or encouragement and reminding yourself of the progress you’ve made.
- Write it down. Keeping an exercise journal is a great way to stay motivated. Seeing your progress written out in black and white offers concrete proof of what you’ve accomplished ““ and great motivation to keep it up.
- Mix it up. The problem with routine is they become, well, routine. So look for new challenges. If you walk, try a new route or switch activities, as long as it meets your healthcare team’s approval.
- Try the buddy system. Working out with a friend is a great way to stay motivated. You can encourage each other and not disappointing your buddy is one more reason to get moving.
- Do what you enjoy. It sounds simple, but many of us only hear the “work” in working out. Tossing around a ball with the kids, dancing with the girls (or your spouse) or walking through a fair or festival all count as physical activity.
