Stay Motivated during Summer

If somewhere between May and right now your fitness drive pulled a disappearing act, don't despair. Here's a summarized version of WH tips on how to maintain your workout mojo—for good.

Curing the motivation problem is at the crux of a theory developed by Deci and his colleagues called Self Determination Theory (SDT ). It boils down to this: The more you do stuff you like to do and not what you think you should do, the more you'll keep doing it.

Step 1: Take charge Appoint yourself CEO of your fitness decisions. Don't let well-meaning friends (or mothers or spouses) force you into another gym membership you won't use.

Step 2: Give yourself props for progressHow many times have you said to yourself during a workout, "I'm getting nowhere"? To make it work, keep the focus on what you can do, rather than what you can't, Wilson says. And don't compare yourself to anyone else. Once you start focusing on you, your confidence will grow and ignite a cycle of positive reinforcement that will keep you hooked.

Step 3: Make it socialAccording to the principles of SDT, making your workouts more like happy hour will put you well on your way to stoking your inner motivator. Start by finding like-minded workout buddies. A study by Canadian researchers found that a congenial atmosphere, rather than a competitive one, helps people stay motivated by providing a source of encouragement.

You already have what you need within you: It's just a matter of tweaking your perspective so you can tap into what really gets you going.

Keep moving this summer moms, you look hottest when you're feeling the coolest!

Keep your fitness momentum mojo.