According to the Mayo Clinic, exercise not only improves your mood, but it also boosts self-confidence. The hardest part of starting an exercise plan is making it a habit, so it is important to find a form of physical exercise that you enjoy. Also, stay positive about your new efforts to develop your physical and emotional well-being. If you have thoughts of giving up, focus on the benefits you feel physically and otherwise after you exercise, so you motivate to return to the challenge again and again.
Step 1
Gather up your resources. Find out what kind of gyms, clubs and recreation centers you have in your immediate area. Research your county's seasonal programs and parks. Check to see if you have fitness shows on your cable or satellite service.
Step 2
Try out your options. Do walk-ins and trial memberships at a few fitness centers, or join up with a beginner hiking club for a day. Through this process, you can get a sense of what kind of environment you enjoy working out in the most. Everyone is different. Some people like to walk or jog around their neighborhood, while others may sign-up for unlimited passes for a yoga or dance studio. If you are still unsure about what you like after spending time experimenting, become a member at a gym that has group exercise classes, cardio and workout equipment, and a pool, which will give you plenty of variety for your workouts. The American Council on Exercise emphasizes that people are more likely to stick with their exercise plan if they cross-train in different sports and workouts. The point is to find activities that are fun, invigorating and confidence-boosting for you.
Step 3
Start with beginner level activities and classes. The non-profit resource for emotional and physical health, Helpguide.org, emphasizes that working out with people who are also new to something helps overcome initial feelings of self-doubt or self-criticism.
Step 4
Stick to a few classes or sports that you enjoy, keeping in mind that you can always try something new whenever you want. As you practice your favorite exercises and sports, you will become better at them and increase your self-confidence.
Step 5
Reward yourself for sticking to your exercise plan. For example, if you reach your goal of going to the gym three times a week by the end of one month, reward yourself with a shopping splurge or a simple weekend trip. According to WeightWatchers, rewards motivate you to continue your healthy lifestyle changes and they make you feel like your efforts are worthwhile in the short-term, not just the long-term. Healthy rewards naturally boost your confidence.
Step 6
Think positive thoughts about yourself before, during and after you exercise. Helpguide.org says that exercise produces feelings of well-being. Combine the positive effects of your exercise with positive thoughts about your progress, how you feel stronger and how your clothes fit better.
Tips and Warnings
- Try small sessions of exercise for 10 or fifteen minutes to get a quick confidence boost on days that you do not have time for a full workout. Wear quality shoes for your activity, if applicable, to protect yourself from injury.
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