JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas –
The excitement of working out after planning a fitness resolution usually fizzles by late February, a staff member from the Health and Wellness Center at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph said. That's when it's time to change the pace.
"People get into a habit (of doing the same exercises) in January and they get bored pretty quickly," Keith Prince, HAWC Health Promotions Flight chief, said. "When boredom sets in, there's little motivation to keep going.
"This is why having variety within your workouts is important."
To create variety, people can try lifting weights, running on a track or treadmill, swimming, playing sports or taking part in other activities that increase heart rate while stimulating the mind.
"The mind drives everything," Prince said. "If the mind isn't stimulated, then the body won't be stimulated. Engage in multiple activities that keep your body sharp."
People must first make time in their schedules and not make excuses, Prince added.
Even the busiest families can hold themselves accountable in the fitness world; in fact, they can inspire each other, he said.
"I have six children ranging from 8 to 23 years old and they are all the motivation I need," Lisbeth Burkhardt, a regular at the Rambler Fitness Center, said. "I encourage them to stay active, like playing sports, but I want to lead by example."
For some, it takes a negative health experience to gain a new lease on life.
"I fell into a bad situation with my health three years ago," Larry Gonzales, a former Marine who was disabled in 2004, said. "I learned that life is fragile, but precious. I had to turn things around."
Gonzales, who works out at the gym six days per week, encouraged others to "start slow and work up."
Exercising with others can also spark an unenthused mind.
"There's a lot of couples and individuals who invite workout partners to the gym," Keith Jones, Rambler Fitness Center recreation aide, said.
Sometimes though, an MP3 player can be the best "partner" to bring to a workout, Prince said.
"Music is a great pump-up tool that can keep you in rhythm and push you the extra mile," he said.
If reward-seeking is the motivation, it's OK to have a treat after a tough workout as long as it's in moderation, Prince said.
"Chocolate milk, for example, is one of the best recovery drinks," he said. "It's got enough sugar for a post-exercise boost, enough protein to strengthen torn-down muscles and calcium, which is huge for muscle responsiveness. Plus, it tastes good."
There is no other way to discover what inspires a workout other than trying it firsthand.
"It's all about self-motivation," Gonzales said. "That comes only from within."