Tapping into that competitive spirit may be the key you’ve been looking for if you’re still struggling to get to the gym on a regular basis.
By Dr. Mercola
Those who succeed at maintaining good health into old age typically have one thing in common: They’ve made regular exercise a part of their day-to-day lifestyle.
Most people realize that exercise is necessary for health and longevity. The challenge that prevents many from implementing a regular fitness regimen is lack of or inconsistent motivation. It takes time to build a new habit, and you need to somehow stay the course. Staying motivated is part of that equation.
Researchers now believe they may have discovered a potent way to boost your motivation to exercise.
Exercise Boosts Serotonin, Norepinephrine and Your Body’s Stress Response
Exercise has undeniable positive effects on your mood, with anxiety reduction key among them.This is what keeps many devoted exercisers coming back for more.
A study by Princeton University researchers revealed that exercising creates new, excitable neurons along with new neurons designed to release the GABA neurotransmitter, which inhibits excessive neuronal firing, helping to induce blissful feelings and a natural state of calm.1
The Benefits of Competitiveness
Are you a competitive person? If so, tapping into that competitive spirit may be the key you’ve been looking for if you’re still struggling to get to the gym on a regular basis.
According to researchers, people who were primed for competition ended up participating in 90 percent more exercise classes than those who weren’t. As reported by Time magazine:2
“Friendly social support makes you work out less often, while cutthroat competition is the key to motivating yourself to get to the gym.”
Social Support Versus Competition…
Continue reading: Competitiveness Helps Improve Motivation and Fitness Gains
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