Men and women choose to exercise for different reasons, according to recent research.

A study of 83 men and women carried out by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) found that men typically begin or continue an exercise programme to improve their physique, while women hit the gym to help maintain a healthy lifestyle.

However, both genders experienced similar levels of exercise addiction and commitment from their exercise regimens.

A separate study by the University of Florida confirmed that though women worry more about their weight, it is men who are more likely to become hooked on exercise.

In order to maintain motivation while exercising, the ACSM says it is important to find your own reason to get fit, whether it is to lose weight or to improve strength and fitness.

Other motivation tips include planning ahead to make sure there is time for exercise in your busy week and exercising in frequent short bouts rather than one long burst to prevent feeling burnt out.