By now you’re well aware of the benefits related to daily cardio, stretching, and resistance activities. Not only does your heart get a massive health boost, but your entire body feels stronger. Your immune system is strengthened and you generally feel better. So why is it so hard to make exercise a habit? Why is a daily exercise regime so difficult to maintain?
The reason we don’t stick to our guns is usually because of a busy work schedule or juggling a work/family balance. As a mom, I understand and want to offer some useful tips on how to fit that much-needed exercise into your life, no matter the time constraints or pressures you face.
As with most things in life, when it comes to implementing a regular, consistent daily exercise routine, perseverance is key. I know it can become difficult and that you may feel like throwing in the towel, but making a commitment and sticking to it is absolutely vital. You wouldn’t quit your job the second you have a bad day. So, try applying this same mindset to exercise. Remove thoughts that tell you exercise isn’t a priority and start making time for it—your health depends on it.
I’m not suggesting this is by any means an easy thing to do. Sometimes these types of mind-shifts are difficult to make, but I know you can do it. Think of your workouts as a way to push your daily boundaries, to expand your skills, and better yourself both mentally and physically. Yes, you may be tired, you may be feeling groggy, and you may think you lack the energy, but I promise once you start, your workout will be exceptionally rewarding both in the short term and long run. Take a look at these tips on how to make exercise a habit.
1. It’s competition time!
Whether at home or in the office, igniting your competitive spirit goes a long way in pushing you to exercise. Why not set up little goals to achieve? You can even challenge friends or family members to see if you can beat their times. If you really want to get creative, give yourself prizes when you finish within a certain time or beat an opponent. It becomes a whole lot more fun to do workouts if you know that there is some sort of competitive spirit.
2. Consistency is key
There’s a reason why everyone wants to know how to make exercise a habit. When you are consistent in your activities, they become much easier to do, and, eventually, they become part of your daily routine. It is no different when it comes to working out. Make a point of picking a specific time either in the morning or in the evening to do your daily exercise. Also, make sure you hold yourself accountable – stick to the chosen time and make it a constant, daily element of your day. Soon you’ll find that it has become a lot more ingrained and natural. You may even start missing it if you skip a day!
3. Personal trainers work
If you’re the type of person who needs a little extra motivation in order to stay on the right path, it might be worth your while to consider hiring a personal trainer. This ensures that someone other than yourself keeps an eye on your progress. If you’re not keen on a one-on-one situation, your local fitness center most likely offers community classes.
4. Plan ahead
Plan your workout ahead of time. Make sure you have a detailed description of the activities you’ll be doing that week. In addition, include the foods you will be eating. It would be a mistake to assume that a workout alone will benefit you. Diet also plays a very important role in your health. Be sure to include more vegetables, healthy oils, fruits, and nuts into your everyday cuisine.
5. Workout charts
Remember when you were at school and you were over the moon when you received gold stars? This is the same concept. Keep track of your progress, activities, workouts, and weight goals by using a chart. Achieving milestones will keep you motivated, determined, and focused.
6. Choose something over nothing
At the end of the day, choosing even small changes for a healthier body is a win-win. You really can’t lose by choosing a healthier snack, foregoing the taxi for a cycle, or walking instead of using the subway. In fact, making these small changes will boost your confidence and commitment. You’ll get rid of that feeling of guilt and regret, and you’ll start making even bigger changes down the line.
And there you have it… 6 amazing tips for how to make exercise a habit! Even so, it can be difficult to get going. Knowing which exercises to do, how to do them, how much to push yourself, or even where to start, can be a tricky and frustrating place to be in. If you need a little extra help designing a workout schedule that fits your lifestyle, let’s chat.
