Need motivation to exercise? Give yourself a pep talk

Staying motivated is the key to staying on track, and experts say positive self-talk can be a powerful tool for getting the workout you want and getting over that first-month hump.

Here are some tips for talking yourself through your workout:

Reason with yourself: People argue that they don't have enough time, but the fact is, to get in shape, you have to make the time to exercise.

Remind yourself why you do it: Everyone has different motivations for getting in shape, but most often clients are looking for overall improved health.

Accent the positive, eliminate the negative: Guilt doesn't work. Instead focus on the positive feelings you get from working out, Jenks says.

Change your tactics as you progress: It's easy to get stuck in a fitness rut. If you're feeling bored with your routine, or not progressing the way you used to, change things up.

Overcome your frustration by seeking help with your workout from a personal trainer, or incorporate new modalities like classes or free weights into your routine. Increase the frequency of your workouts, or the duration, and soon you'll start to see new improvements, he advises.

Set goals. Start with simple goals and then progress to longer-range goals. Remember to make your goals realistic and achievable.

Think variety. Alternate walking or biking with swimming or a low-impact aerobics class.

Make physical activity part of your daily routine. Schedule workouts as you would any other important activity.

Put it on paper. Chart your progress and accomplishments.

Have fun. You're more likely to stick with an exercise program if you're having fun. If you're not enjoying your workouts, try something different - join a volleyball or softball league, take a ballroom dancing class.