Tomorrow marks one year since my pituitary tumour removal. It also marks eight months of regular exercise since the surgery.

Coping with an injury or sickness can take a major toll on our bodies. Even minor injuries can be traumatic and tempt us to limit our normal routines. This can make it challenging to see any results.

I was highly motivated to return to exercise after eight weeks of recuperation because I wanted to return to my previous activities. But what happens when you can’t discover the motivation? What happens when you cannot locate a workout buddy or when non-scale victories are just not enough? Check out some ways below to gain motivation when it just isn’t there.

Create variety

The number on the scale does not define your success or progress in fitness. It’s very normal to hit plateaus or have your workouts begin to feel boring.

A fitness coach can assist by helping you change things up with new routines, reps or equipment to jerk you out of your slump. It’s also helpful to have various measurements of progress. Start with today. What is one thing you can do today that you couldn’t for the last month? Or three months ago?

Find out why

Do you know why you are working out, what you are working towards and how you will get there? I am not referring to summer or pre-vacation weight loss.

I am talking about finding meaningful and sustainable motivation to invest in your health. It could be about improving mental health, having more energy or lowering your risk of chronic diseases.

Identifying your “why” will help you comprehend how what you are doing isn’t just about gaining muscle or a number on the scale, but improving your health and quality of life.

Get rid of gym anxiety

Gym anxiety can prevent many from working out in a public setting. It’s challenging when the same activity that’s supposed to help with stress is causing anxiety instead.

If you can’t get rid of the feeling, try virtual options for fitness. They are super easy to access and allow you to work out where you are most comfortable.

The best workout schedule is the one that keeps you kicking and pushing to keep moving. If you’ve lost your mojo, it’s time to consider a different approach. Try a routine that integrates smoothly into your life.

Be aware of life changes

Covid 19 and other illnesses have caused huge life changes and thwarted many fitness goals over the past two years. Despite our best intentions, sometimes life truly gets in the way. If you have had a change in employment, experienced the loss of a loved one or are reeling from any other major event, it is understandable that your exercise routine may have taken a slight detour.

Have patience with yourself. When you’re ready to begin again, there are many options available. Find one that is convenient for you and fits your new normal.

All the best with your new perspective and B-Active For Life!

Betty Doyling is a certified fitness trainer and figure competitor with more than a decade of experience. Look for B. ActiveForLife on Facebook