Can Technology be Your Fitness Motivator?

Do you love getting the latest high tech gadgets?  Although technology has made our lives easier, it also has the ability to enable us to live more inactive lives.  New technologies available can also help motivate some people to get and stay "in motion".  Below are a few examples of how you can stay motivated using technology or by just sticking with the basics.

Fitness Apps
There are many fitness apps, for Smartphones and other electronic devices, which can help you with your fitness plan.  From apps that guide you through a 5K training program or take you through a relaxing yoga workout, to apps that keep a logbook of your workouts.  Apps can help keep you on track, set goals and motivate you to be active.  Be sure when considering a fitness app that you check reviews or get recommendations from others who have used them.

Online Social Networks
Create an online physical activity support group with friends or join a group. Social networks can provide you with the friendly support and motivation you need to help you stick with your goals and succeed.  Sharing physical activity progress and experiences with others can help keep you motivated by having others encouraging you to reach your fitness goals. 

Track your Progress
Global Positioning System (GPS) on some watches and phones have opened a whole new way of tracking your physical activity. GPS data can be used to track your distance, pace and energy expended and can be downloaded to your computer as an activity record. Knowing your progress can help motivate you to challenge yourself in your fitness goals and to stay on track.
You certainly don’t need “high tech” gadgets to be physically active or stay motivated.  So here are some other ways to help your motivation.

Consult an expert
Certified Personal Trainers (CSEP-CPT ®) have the knowledge to help start you on a physical activity program that will suit your personal needs.  Certified by the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology , a CSEP-CPT ® can take you through new and challenging workouts while ensuring the use of proper technique and safety during exercise.  They will provide you with the knowledge and encouragement that you may need, while providing motivation for you to achieve your goals.

Exercise with friends
Having a friend to exercise with will help motivate you to stick to a routine.  By supporting each other, both individuals will be more likely to reach their fitness goals. Plus, it’s always more fun to workout with a friend!

Try a pedometer 
Just clip this small device on your belt, and it will keep track of every step you take. Aim for 10,000 steps a day, but know that every step you take counts. Getting continual feedback on the number of steps you have taken each day will help motivate you to get up and move more to reach your daily goal for steps taken.  Pedometers are easy to find at major retailers and are a relatively inexpensive fitness tool. 

So, it’s not about the tech gadgets you use, but it’s about using whatever method works for you to stay "in motion" and keeping in mind that the most important reason is for your health!