The rising costs of health care don't seem to shake people from their ignorant slumber as many people avoid working out to stay fit. Health problems ranging from cardiovascular diseases to obesity can be prevented, if people follow a regular workout program. It's a misconception that you should go to a gym only if you are into bodybuilding. In fact, only about 10 percent of the people who go to the gym are professional bodybuilders, the rest go to stay fit. Regular exercise will surely save you a lot of money in the long run on medical expenses. So, motivate yourself so as to inculcate the healthy habit of following a fitness regimen. Motivation is a subjective term and there are different things that work for different people. So the idea is to find something that works for you. Here are a few suggestions that you could try to keep yourself motivated. Visual Motivation One of the ways of getting motivated to work out is to watch fitness videos. You can buy workout DVDs or download free clips from the Internet. If you are into weight training, you could watch videos of specific muscle exercises to stimulate yourself. People who are doing aerobics or other cardio routines can also motivate themselves by watching these clips. Wise Up Subscribe to health magazines and read up to know how to stay fit. You can also get a lot of information on the Internet. Reading about fitness will not only add to your knowledge, but will also get you motivated to work out the next day. Pick a Partner Finding a training partner is one of the simplest and best tricks to get motivated to work out regularly. The idea is to find someone who will push you to exercise and doesn't hesitate to go the extra mile to call you and remind you about working out. Finding someone who exercises regularly and has discipline is more than enough to get you motivated. Tracking Sheets Take a sheet of paper and a measuring tape and then list down your measurements, like for the waist, thighs, chest, etc. Weigh yourself and make sure to note that down as well. On another sheet, list down your desired measurements. Be realistic when you are setting your goals and stick both the sheets at a place where you can see them everyday. Plan Workouts Planning is one of the most exciting thing that you can undertake to stay motivated. Plan for the next day's workout, if possible, list down the benefits that you will receive from that routine. Make sure you just plan for a day. Seek Professional Help If you have the financial resources, hire a personal trainer who can keep you on your toes. You can also request one of your family members to give you a pep talk every time they feel you are straying from your fitness goals. Talk to your friends and colleagues, and tell them to keep reminding you about the importance of working out. Some of the other things that you could try are listening to pumping music when you start your workout. Sticking posters around your house of people who inspire you to work out like sportsmen and bodybuilders will also help. Use sticky notes and write inspirational quotes like 'there is no substitute for hard work' on your computer or refrigerator.