21 Ways to Stick to a Workout(4)

May 1, 2006 (Press Release) -- "My buddy can't make it tonight." It's easy to blame others. "If you're serious about training, think of it like a job," says Murphy. "If your training partner was an employee who continually was late and had poor performance, what would you do? You'd fire him!"

"I hate working out alone." Go to the gym at the same time and on the same days. Say hi to people. You'll find others who are on your schedule, says Abramson.

"I should really stay with my wife tonight and help with the baby. Plus, The O.C. is on." Or you could help all three of you. More and more gyms have child-care centers so you and your wife can get away and spend time together—something that new parents need, says Abramson. Or go over the calendar with your wife: For every day she's out, you can schedule a workout.

"Everyone's going out for drinks." Join them once a week "and you won't appear standoffish," Abramson says. But eat first. By having your drinks with a meal, you won't drink, snack and eat dinner later.

"But The O.C. is on!" "Create a commitment you can't get out of," says Platkin. Make an appointment with a trainer who will charge you whether you show or not.

"I commute for an hour. I'm not getting back in my car." Go straight from work twice a week, then work out at home the other nights.

Source: http://health.msn.com/centers