Have you been putting off starting a workout routine because you don't think you can stick to it?
Have you tried to start one in the past, but didn't have the time or motivation to keep going?
Most people struggle with creating the habit of regular exercise. Balancing life and exercise is no simple task.
Following these tips will make it a lot easier!
Find a friend to be your workout partner
Although the idea of sticking to a workout routine can be daunting, you don't have to do it alone. It can be so much easier with a friend by your side!
Doing your workouts with a friend will help alleviate the "boredom" aspect of exercise, as well as make exercise less intimidating. It also offers accountability, which is super important in creating habits! Who better to motivate you and encourage you than a friend? Accountability, motivation, and encouragement: 3 things that can be hard to find within ourselves.
No matter how knowledgeable you are about movement and exercise, you'll always learn more from a friend that's by your side. Working out with others helps to broaden your scope of exercise knowledge--you both will be able to learn new techniques from each other.
Plan for consistent times to work out
Think about the structure of each day of your week. When do you have time for a workout? From here, set up an exercise schedule for your week. Focus on ROUTINE.
Sometimes, you'll have to make time for a workout, rather than find time. Assure yourself that it's OK to put other things aside when you need to exercise.
Be realistic: consider your limits and capabilities
Take time to understand your limits and capabilities so that you can be realistic about what workouts you can do. Don't feel like you need to immediately jump into very rigorous workouts. It's OK to start with just walking!
If you have an injury, you may need to first speak with your doctor about your exercise routine. Make sure the workouts you pick are SAFE for you. Start small!
Set SMART goals
Starting with small goals will prevent you from becoming overwhelmed and giving up. It'll also give you that feeling of success when you accomplish those goals. Remember that SMART goals are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-bound.
The goals you set will help keep you level-headed and on track. Without established goals, a workout routine can become chaotic, and you could wind up feeling lost.
If exercise is unfamiliar to you, even setting a goal of going on just one walk this week is a great start. Next, bump it up to 3 walks in a week!
Don't feel like you're cheating yourself or selling yourself short if your SMART goals seem very small. It's totally possible to be ambitious AND realistic. After regularly accomplishing weekly goals, eventually you can move up to 3-month or even 6-month goals!
Reward yourself
Rewarding yourself after your workouts can provide the reinforcement you need to make exercise a habit. You can buy yourself a small gift, take a little extra time to relax, or watch something you really enjoy.
Oftentimes, the mental and physical feelings you have after a workout are rewards in themselves. You'll find yourself feeling proud, capable, and accomplished, and a little soreness in your body serves as a reminder of your hard work!
