I find a lot of times that girls have real trouble getting motivated.  Perhaps part of the reason is that guys see results much quicker than girls do.  And, if you don't see results, you lose motivation.  The logic in that is backwards, IMO, because you'll never see results if you're not consistent. This is also true for guys, however.  Guys lose motivation just as quickly as girls do.  

Therefore, I have come up with a few things that keep me motivated. 

1.   SETTING GOALS AND REWARDS
I have read in so many places that it is best to set small goals and reward yourself on the way.  This is simple.  My mom set herself a goal and got herself a tattoo when she reached it.  (Yes, my MOM got a tattoo).  I like to set one major goal and reward myself along the way.  I like to shop, so rewarding myself usually consists of buying new clothes.  Rewards should NEVER be food!  Food is not a reward, it's a source of sustenance. 

2.  HAVING FUN
Working out is really something you should be looking forward to.  Put aside that it makes you look better, but it makes you feel better.  Physically, emotionally, and mentally.  What else does that for you?  A good workout releases endorphins, so it makes sense you would feel good.  Personally, I make my workouts fun by having good music that I enjoy and cute workout outfits (which are usually purchased as part of my rewards, see number 1).  

3.   REALIZING YOU CAN DO IT
It's so easy to give up and say you can't do something.  But let's be real, unless your Dr. has told you that you can't do something, chances are you can.  Just try -- there's no better feeling than accomplishing something you didn't think you could do.  If women at the age of 50+ can train for marathons, you can make it to the gym.  

 4.  MAKING IT A ROUTINE
It's easy to stick to something when it's your routine.  It's not a chore, it's not a job, and it's not your hobby.  It's just part of your day.  You go to work, then you go to the gym.  Or, you wake up, you go to the gym, then you go to class.  Whatever it is, it should be part of your routine.  If it's consistent, you will be too.  This is much the same as eating clean.  Once you cut out all the garbage, sure the first few days are hard, but after that, you don't even crave it anymore.  (Except when you PMS, yea I know!).  Making or breaking a habit takes 28 days.  So give yourself a month and get into a routine.  

5.  FIND SOMETHING YOU LIKE
Remember that you're working out not only to achieve a certain goal (say, losing 10 lbs, losing love handles, getting a flat stomach, etc.), but to maintain that goal in the long-run, as well. Therefore,it should be something you enjoy doing.  Running isn't for everyone.  And neither is the elliptical.  Find some cardio that you like and make sure to incorporate strength training.  Look things up to see what you like.  Personally, I love doing my cardio outdoors.  It doesn't matter what the weather is like outside (unless it's ice or pouring), but it's awesome because you get fresh air and something new to look at each time.  For me, it goes by much faster than the treadmill at the gym.  Going outdoors also means being able to find new paths.  (If you do cardio outdoors, make sure you get the right shoes so that you don't injure yourself from the hard impact of the floor).  Some girls like those classes at the gym or a yoga studio.  Whatever it is, find your niche and enjoy it. 

6.  DON'T OVERTRAIN
I tell this to everyone, since it happened to me.  First, if you workout too hard, you're just going to tire yourself out and it's going to keep you from being motivated.  Second, you could injure yourself which will just keep you from working out regularly.  Third, you won't see results.  Your body needs time to recuperate.  So let it.  But don't use this as an excuse not to train as hard as you can!  

Leave comments with what keeps you motivated.