Do you feel more motivated to exercise when you have a goal?

[bubbles76]

I have goals, but they are pretty generic. My goals are to be stronger, more flexible, and increase my cardio endurance. My most recent goal is to be pain free. I always have a rotation, because if there is no plan I probably wouldn't be as consistent with my exercise

[FitBoop]

Interesting responses!

I think that for someone like me, who likes to make goals and plans, the best way to stay motivated is to set very short-term (i.e. daily) goals.

Also, people who are motivated to exercise focus on the most important reasons for exercising (such as health benefits, getting stronger, more flexible, stronger heart, better endurance, etc.). If the main reason for exercising is to look better (which is often my motivation for exercising like gangbusters before an event or a performance), then that won't provide consistency.

For someone who is goal-oriented, it can be difficult to be motivated all the time unless there is a goal in mind. I like the feeling of working towards a goal and being challenged.

I think it's helpful to have goals, but even more helpful to make a plan.

[Nuggie's Auntie]

[QUOTE=FitBoop;2577048
I think it's helpful to have goals, but even more helpful to make a plan.[/QUOTE]

Yes, that's a good distinction to make. I'd say I always have a plan, but rarely a goal!

[FirmDancer]

Yes! I do better with goals. I do have a goal of staying as active and fit as possible in my later years. But I recently took up kayaking and I love it so much! It is motivating me to increase my strength and fitness. Because, as I approach 60, I want to continue to be able to get my kayak on my car rooftop. And I really need to work on my upper body strength, so that if I roll over in my kayak, I'll be able to get myself back on it. Oh, and I need to practice swimming. So yes, having a goal (surviving a capsize!) is motivating me.

[videofit]

I don't need goals for fitness. I just do it. Maybe if I'm going on vacation I might walk more than usual to build my stamina since I know I will be doing a lot of walking.