Motivation

It can be difficult for individuals to feel motivated to complete exercises when they are also managing their chronic pain symptoms. By making meaningful goals, individuals can be more motivated to adhere to an exercise program. Success and sustainability with an exercise program is dependent upon the following factors: Motivation toward goals, the establishment of personal habits and routines, the right match between the challenge and abilities, and a supportive environment.

There are many health benefits to daily exercise (Lorig et al., 2020). Exercise can improve:

• Strength
• Flexibility
• Endurance
• Balance
• Energy
• Sleep
• Mood
• Confidence

Habits and Routines

To increase adherence to an exercise program, it is important to incorporate exercises into a daily routine. By making a plan to complete something each day, like an exercise, it can quickly become a part of someone's daily routine. Before you know it, it could become a habit and you might do it without even having to think about it.

Activities and Abilities

Exercises for all parts of the body can be incorporated into daily life. There are many exercises supported in the literature for individuals experiencing chronic pain. These exercises can be completed during daily activities for increased sustainability and adherence. Exercises can also be made easier and more difficult depending on an individuals current abilities. See "Upper Body" and "Lower Body" subpages for exercise ideas along with written descriptions, pictures, videos, and ways to implement them into daily life.

Environment

The environment you complete your exercises and daily activities in is important. Often times, this is your home, and you can set it up how you would like. Ensuring that your environment is set up properly to promote your engagement in meaningful activities is essential. Make any modifications to your environment you feel necessary to support your adherence and completion of your exercises. Always consider safety as well.

References