walking-the-dog-273526 (1)Everyone trying to lose weight knows that they should be exercising, but many times people struggle to find the motivation.  If you’ve been struggling to find motivation to exercise, maybe you just need an exercise that better suits you or makes you feel really good.  Maybe you need an exercise that does more than just make you feel physically good, but more like you did something that mattered.  Try some of these feel good exercises, and you might find an easier time mustering up the motivation to move more.

Volunteer to walk or jog with dogs from a local shelter.  Not only does this add a level of entertainment and fun to exercise, but you also get the satisfaction of making a dog’s day.  Not only are shelters in need of volunteers, but you may also come to find that those dogs are relying on you for exercise, which may help motivate you to get moving.

Join in on some free exercise classes!  Being in a group and trying new things can help keep exercise interesting and enjoyable.  See our blog post for more information on classes available in Chicago.

Volunteer at a local senior center or nursing home.  Take seniors for walks, either walking with them or pushing them in their wheelchairs.  This can be an extremely emotionally satisfying way to get some exercise in, while helping those who deeply appreciate your compassion.

Set a goal to run, walk or bike in a charity event, then train for it.  Find an event you are passionate about and that will motivate you to train for it.

Volunteer to work in a community garden.  Although working in a garden isn’t what we would typically think of when we envision getting more active, it is certainly more activity than what we get sitting around the house.  Besides, it’s a good thing to do for your community!

Do you enjoy taking walks in nice, clean parks?  Well, someone has to clean them.  You could volunteer to clean a trail.  You’d get exercise while you were cleaning it up, and you would also then have a nice, clean trail to use in the future!

Exercise is an important component of any weight loss program.  If you are looking for more motivation to keep up your exercise routine or to stick to your weight loss plan, consider seeing us here, at Olivera Weight Loss.  Research shows that people who regularly attend a weight loss program, like Lose It, our group weight loss program, lose more weight.  We have a variety of options, including our new Integrative Program, our Primary Program, Nutrition Consultations and more.  Please, visit our website for more information on our services, and send us a message or call us today at 773-327-6624 if you would like more information or want to schedule an appointment!

 

Written by Cassandra Towns, RDN, LDN, CD, CLC