March 2001

The question-of-the-month for March comes from Greg in Texas, a 28 year old who asks how to get motivated to train.  His question is:

Dear Mike:

As a professional, how do you motivate yourself to train?  I hold a degree in exercise physiology with a minor in psychology and for some reason cannot get motivated to train.  I used to weigh 235 and was fit, then the injuries came, and then rehab, now motivation is not there.  Any help or recommendations? 

Dear Greg:

Thank you for your question.  You have probably put your finger on one of the most difficult questions in bodybuilding, "How do I get motivated to train?".

First, I think it is important to set some realistic goals.  This is critical whether you are a competitive bodybuilder or just someone who wants to get in better shape.  Without goals, we usually just end up going through the motions and wandering aimlessly from exercise to exercise - day to day, month to month.  Additionally, staying motivated means you must make new goals once you have surpassed previously set goals.

Another tip to help stay motivated is to incorporate new exercises into your workout program.  All of us at one time or another, including me, have tended to gravitate towards the same exercises when we train a body part.  Force yourself to try new exercises.  This will not only help you stay motivated by making your workouts more interesting, but it will also serve to stimulate your muscle for more growth.

Another tip would be to train with someone or utilize the services of a personal trainer.  Usually when people train or work with someone, they are more apt to be consistent with their workout program. 

Lastly, make sure your nutrition program is adequate, including your supplementation (vitamins, etc).  If you are not eating properly, most likely you will feel tired and not be in the mood to train.

I hope you find these tips helpful.  Thanks again for your question, Greg, and I wish you all the best.

As always, don't forget to visit the Past Qs & As and my Training Tips section for more great tips and training info.

Until next month, train hard and stay healthy.

Mike Francois

Do you have a training question for Mike?  If so, visit our Ask Mike section and submit your question.

Note: Before embarking on any nutrition, supplementation, and/or training program, consult with your physician or other licensed health-care professional.