So many people start an exercise program, only to stop it just days later. While there are some that end up quitting because of an injury or because they can no longer fit the routine into their busy day, many find themselves unable to keep exercising because they are completely and totally out of motivation to do so. Keeping motivation is one of the most important factors in any exercise program because without it the inevitable excuses start showing up.

One of the most common fitness memes these days is this " If you want to do it, you will make the time. If you do not want to, you will make excuses". There are dozens of others, all in the similar vein. They all come down to the same concept- without motivation, you won't actually get up and move in any way. You won't go to the gym. You won't put on your shoes and go outside for a run or even a walk. You won't even pop in a DVD and workout at home. So, how do you combat flagging motivation so that you can stay on track? Thankfully, there are several proven ways to do so.

First, make yourself accountable. Join a group, even if it is a Facebook group where you are required to discuss your exercise each day. Sure, there are days where you might just log in and consider lying, but for the most part, people are more honest with themselves when they are forced to be open in front of others. Make it okay to have an off day where instead of pumping beastly weights you just take a walk around the block. Your group should not be pouncing on you for a day or two where you take it easy because you just weren't feeling the all out workout. But, your group should also not be letting you slide on everything. Someone needs to remind you that you need to step it up which can refresh your own sense of motivation.

If you are working toward a set size of clothing, buy an inexpensive item that you hope to fit into, making sure that it is reasonable. Hang it where you can see it when you are getting dressed for the day or better yet, when you are getting ready for your workout. If you see what you are working for, it makes the finish line more real for you and may get you up and off of that couch.