Ask the Experts- March 2019

Dear Red Hot Mamas:

Thank you for all the information you provide us through your newsletter. My doctor said I need to exercise more but she doesn’t provide me with ways to help me stick with an exercise program. Can you please provide me any advice? I appreciate it.

Lori

Dear Lori,

You are so right. If you are motivated to exercise, you will stick with it. You will need to be motivated so that you can embrace the activity you are doing and continue it for the long term.

Red Hot Mamas suggest that you adapt an action plan. And, before you embark on an exercise plan always discuss this with your doctor first.

Here are a few steps which may help you stay motivated:

• Understand what worked for you in the past and what didn’t work when you began an exercise regimen. You may learn from your past experiences if you don’t repeat the same mistakes over again.
• Start slowly. It’s best not to push too hard to avoid stiffness and pain which can hinder your ability to exercise.
• Choose an activity that you thoroughly enjoy. If you participate in something you find boring, the chances are that you will stop doing it.
• Set realistic goals for yourself and continually evaluate your progress
• Plan for exercise and add it to your calendar reserving a time each day for your physical activity.
• Ask for support if needed. Develop friendships with physically active family members or friends
• Reward yourself by savoring how good you feel after your workout. Hold onto those memories and keep that image in your mind as a reminder of how good exercise is for you.
• Remember the payoff. Being physically fit will improve your health and the quality of your life.