How to Motivate People to Do More Exercise
Motivational Strategies for Increasing Physical Activity Levels
Sep 8, 2009
In today's society, many people view exercise as a voluntary activity rather than an essential one; if they don't have to do it, they won't. Therefore to be motivated sufficiently into taking more exercise, they must first be convinced it is worthwhile, and then be shown how it is possible to fit exercise into their lives in a way that suits them.
Why aren't People Motivated to do More Exercise?
Understanding people's beliefs and attitudes towards exercise helps to explain why they do little or no physical activity. People who are largely sedentary often have negative views about exercise, believing it to be pointless, difficult and unpleasant, and are able to offer a multitude of excuses for not doing it.
Here are some common reasons people give for not exercising:
- They have never really bothered before and think it is too late
- They won't have time to look after their homes and families
- They won't have time to see their friends
- They are too tired and haven't got the energy
- They are not the sporty type
- Going to the gym is inconvenient and expensive
Changing people's attitudes and beliefs towards exercise is a major step towards motivating them to incorporate more physical activity into their lives.
Motivational Strategies for Getting People to do More Exercise
Consider the following excuses people give for not exercising, along with the possible arguments to convince them that they can, and should, exercise regularly:
- There is no point to exercise - There is a lot of point to exercise at any stage of life, as it has numerous health benefits. Regular physical activity promotes weight loss and reduces the risk of obesity, improves cardio respiratory fitness, reduces the risk of coronary heart disease, prevents high blood pressure, helps to control diabetes, and reduces the risk of osteoporosis and some cancers. Exercise also helps people to manage anxiety and depression.
- Exercising means time away from family and friends - Exercising does not necessarily mean always spending precious time away from partners, family and friends. For example, days out to the zoo, wildlife and theme parks where lots of walking is involved can turn exercise into a fun, sociable activity when everyone can join in.
- Too out of shape to exercise - It is not necessary to be athletic or of a sporty nature to participate in exercise. Making the decision to be more physically active does not mean an automatic gym membership and a compulsory jog around the block every night. Whatever form it takes, exercise helps people to improve their body shape, body image and self-esteem.
- Too tired and stressed after work - Exercise actually helps to reduce stress and improve energy levels. After work is not the only time for exercise, as there are often opportunities for physical activity at other times of the day. Walking to work, walking the dog or kids to and from school or a stroll during lunch hour are all possibilities. Many companies also have workplace fitness initiatives in place.
- No time for exercise - Exercise does not have to be inconvenient and get in the way of other things. Physical activity can easily be incorporated into daily life by doing things such as using the stairs instead of the lift or escalator, walking more often and walking quicker, and doing household chores such as cleaning, gardening, mowing the lawn and raking.
When trying to motivate people to do more exercise it helps to identify the different reasons they have for not exercising, and offer solutions to them. For every excuse there is for not exercising, there is an opportunity to encourage physical activity.
For more information about the health benefits of physical activity and ways to incorporate it into daily life, read Find the Motivation to Exercise.
Resources:
CDC. "Physical Activity - Ready. Set. It’s Everywhere You Go!" (Accessed 8th September 2009)
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