FYI
Self-talk and Exercise
When you work out, what messages are running through your head? How you think about exercise greatly influences how you feel about it -- and how likely you are to stick with it. If your self-talk during exercise is all negative, your experience with exercise will be negative, too.
Do any of the following thoughts sound familiar?
I don't like exercise.
I'm not a natural athlete.
I'll never get better at this.
Everyone is looking at me.
I missed a workout, so I may as well give up.
I'm too tired for this.
I'm never going to reach my goal.
If I exercise, I'll feel exhausted afterward.
If any of these -- or any other -- negative messages come to mind during your workouts, try replacing them with the following:
I will keep trying until I find an activity I enjoy.
My body is made to move.
I will gain skill over time.
Others can think what they like -- I won't let it stop me.
I may have missed a workout, but I can get back on track today.
I'm tired, but I'll aim for just 10 minutes of exercise and then see how I feel.
I can and will reach my goal.
After I exercise, I really feel good about myself.
This week, pay attention to the thoughts you're having during exercise and focus on replacing negative thoughts with positive ones. Doing so will make your workouts more productive and enjoyable.
When you work out, what messages are running through your head? How you think about exercise greatly influences how you feel about it -- and how likely you are to stick with it. If your self-talk during exercise is all negative, your experience with exercise will be negative, too.
Do any of the following thoughts sound familiar?
I don't like exercise.
I'm not a natural athlete.
I'll never get better at this.
Everyone is looking at me.
I missed a workout, so I may as well give up.
I'm too tired for this.
I'm never going to reach my goal.
If I exercise, I'll feel exhausted afterward.
If any of these -- or any other -- negative messages come to mind during your workouts, try replacing them with the following:
I will keep trying until I find an activity I enjoy.
My body is made to move.
I will gain skill over time.
Others can think what they like -- I won't let it stop me.
I may have missed a workout, but I can get back on track today.
I'm tired, but I'll aim for just 10 minutes of exercise and then see how I feel.
I can and will reach my goal.
After I exercise, I really feel good about myself.
This week, pay attention to the thoughts you're having during exercise and focus on replacing negative thoughts with positive ones. Doing so will make your workouts more productive and enjoyable.
Thanks Chris!
It's amazing what positive thinking will do for us! Even if we have to fake it 'til we make it!
Thanks for the reminder!
Jules
For Info about Rhode Island Support Groups, please email me! [email protected]
That was really good! I saw alot of me in those negative thoughts. I found some of those positive ones a big help. I like the "i'm tired but will aim for 10 minutes of exercise and see how I feel." So many times I don't exercise cuz I am tired. But If you keep the goal short, its easier to achieve, then you might be inspired to do 10 minutes more. Thanks Chris! Eldy