Q&A: Expert Commentary From Dara Dairo

question What are your failsafe tips on motivation?

answerThere are so many different psychological techniques for motivation, but the one I always tell my clients is to be honest with themselves. The number one limiting factor with someone who fails to reach their goals is that they are not honest with themselves; they aren’t willing to do whatever it takes to get to where they want to be.

I’m not saying that if you want have a bit of fun with exercise and keep active that you need to make massive life changes. But when you take that look at yourself and you want to make big changes in physical ability or appearance, you are going to need to make big changes in, and out of, the gym.

It is often said that continuously doing the same things over again and expecting different results are the signs of insanity. People kid themselves into thinking that extra chocolate bar or plate of chips won’t hurt — this never helped before and you have not reached your goal. Consistency is key, and that’s why the best way to stay motivated is to be honest with yourself. Don’t forget where you want to go and how you said you’d get there.

Dara Dairo is a personal trainer at Virgin Active Health Club Kensington; www.virginactive.co.uk

Fitness Professionals