Making Exercise a Habit!
Weather you are just starting out in a fitness program or just simply looking for a way to spice up your current workout regimen you certainly face challenges. It’s often difficult to create balance in a busy schedule and find both the time and motivation to start a fitness program. It’s even more difficult to stick to it. But there is hope! In the words of comedian and playwright Woody Allen, “80% of success is just showing up!” Here are a few tips to help you make exercise an habit.
1. Set a goal. The number one reason we fail to succeed is that we fail to adequately define our goals or we set a goal which is too big. Although it’s a great idea to “begin with the end in mind”, try setting a realistic “baby goal”. Instead of setting a goal to lose 20 pounds, try setting a goal like losing 1 pound a week for 20 weeks. By taking baby steps, you will see your progress and this will help keep you motivated and on track. If you try to do too much too soon, you will inevitably meet resistance which will lead to frustration and disappointment.
2. Make a schedule and stick to it. Make appointments with yourself to workout like making an appointment for a “date” or doctors visit. Put your workouts on your calendar and check them off after you complete them. This is a great way of making your goals and your progress more visual. Studies show that people who make a schedule and keep it are more likely to be successful in an exercise program.
3. Don’t expect too much too soon. See #1 above. Be realistic about your goals. Remember, when climbing a mountain, you rarely go straight up.
4. Focus on the benefits. Instead of looking at how far you need to go to accomplish your goal, look at how far you have come! This is a simple yet effective way of self-motivation. How do you feel after your workout? How does it feel after losing your first 5 pounds? Imagine a fitter and more slim you! This can be a powerful motivator for building consistency in your workouts. Just remember that the benefits of exercise are long term.
5. Get a workout buddy. Having a workout buddy that has similar goals will make it more likely that you keep your “appointment”. A workout buddy can also be a great motivator and and keep you accountable for showing up. Better yet, you can get a personal trainer!
Starting the exercise habit is just like any other habit. At first it will take some initial energy, but once you get going it becomes easier to keep it going!
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