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Make Excercise Fun

If we accept that physical activity and sensible eating can confer benefits such as an improved quality of life, a healthier weight, higher energy levels, elevated moods, a bolstered immunity and a longer life (huge payoffs), why do we struggle interminably to work out and eat right (small investment)? We found Eric Harr´s answers to this question pretty motivating.

Here are some key points from Eric Harr.

Deep in the hills of Japan's sacred Mount Hiei, a small group of Buddhist monks have mastered the mind-body experience of physical activity. They are known around the world as "Marathon Monks," and over a seven-year training period, these "running Tendai Buddha" figuratively circle the globe on foot, running more than 50 miles a day as their path to spiritual enlightenment.

That's utterly different from how most Americans view physical activity. For them, it's less about self-discovery and more about burning calories. The Tendai run because of what it does for their souls. That's why they have such a jaw-dropping dedication to it. We do it because of how it makes us look or feel. I believe that in order to make exercise an enduring part of our lifestyle we must find a deeper meaning to it, much like the Tendai do.

The first step is to move your focus of your workouts from the outcome to the process. Instead of setting long-term fitness goals that relate to outcomes, such as weight loss, set goals that relate to participation (i.e., how many times you will work out this month, what type of exercise you will do) and then have as much fun as possible in pursuing those goals. That way, the weight loss comes as a result of the participation-centric and passion-driven activity.

Becoming process-oriented begins with setting a clear goal for each workout. But too vague a goal may result in your focus shifting to the boredom or discomfort of the workout. If your goal for an exercise session is to run faster, then shift your focus to your breathing, using graceful technique and testing your limits.

The next step is to hone your ability to stay positively focused during workouts. Mental strategies can help you experience "flow," an optimal psychological state characterized by an intense absorption in a workout, a clear sense of your goals and a feeling of letting go.

To increase your flow during exercise, concentrate on a deep, smooth and rhythmical breathing pattern - such as inhaling when your left foot strikes the ground and exhaling on your right foot. Breathe into your belly, rather than "panting" into your chest. This increases oxygen uptake and gives you a better sense of well-being during exercise. It will help you clear your mind of distracting thoughts as well.

Finally, your language and your thoughts determine your perception of exercise. In order to boost your long-term motivation to work out, you must attribute more positive associations to it. Do not badmouth your workouts. By focusing on and articulating the "benefits" of exercise, you will begin to see, and do, it differently; your gratitude for the activity will deepen.

September 1, 2005 in Weight Loss Motivation | Permalink