Fitness motivation in winter

By pilates instructor & fitness expert Alexia Morris

Why is it that some people find it so easy to commit to exercise for the long term? While others, even with the best of intentions will always find an excuse not to exercise? The key difference is in how they are motivated.

Motivation is divided into two areas, extrinsic and intrinsic.

Extrinsic motivation

Most people beginning an exercise programme, are prompted by extrinsic motivation – ie reasons that are external to them. The person may have been influenced by a friend or relative, or by their doctor. An advert for a special offer at the local gym may also provide the extrinsic motivation to “get fit”.

While extrinsic motivation works in the short term, it rarely keeps people motivated long term.

Take the example of exercising for weight loss. While you may see an initial, rapid drop in your weight, as you continue this rate of loss will slow. It’s at this point many people lose motivation, dispirited by the slow down in their success. They are no longer seeing the reward (ie weight loss), for their effort.

Intrinsic motivation

However, intrinsic motivation is longer lasting and leads to greater long-term success. The intrinsic exerciser looks inward in the attempt to discover what holds true meaning for them.

One individual may be exercising because they find the actual exercise movement to be enjoyable while another person finds that each session holds a personal challenge for them.

Whatever the reasoning behind one’s motivation for exercising, it must come from within in order for meaning to be attached to it.

About Alexia

Alexia is a Pilates instructor and personal trainer with more than 20 years in the fitness industry. For more information about Alexia click here.

To find out about pilates at Balance2health click here.

For more information on motivation, or to find out how to get yourself motivated for exercise this winter contact Alexia Morris on 0425 830 191 or by email