Everyone knows exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, but busy schedules and a lack of direction often get in the way of creating a consistent routine. Make working out a regular part of your day by following the tips below.
Find a workout you enjoy.
You’re more likely to exercise if you find a workout you enjoy. Before starting a strict workout plan, try different types of exercises to discover your favorite. Run or walk every day for a week, try out a weight lifting routine, or do a trial period at a few local workout studios.
Set a goal.
Once you find a workout you enjoy, set a goal you’d like to achieve and set a date you’d like to achieve it by. You’re more likely to stay motivated if you have something you’re working towards. For example, if you’ve decided to start running, your goal could be to run in a 5k race. If you start yoga, you may work toward moving from beginner to intermediate classes.
Be realistic.
When choosing your goal, make sure it’s something you can attain in the relatively near future through a reasonable exercise routine that will work with your schedule. If you take on too much too quickly, you may become discouraged and give up.
Get a plan.
Once your goal is set, create a workout plan to get there. This can be done by meeting with a trainer or instructor, purchasing a workout guide or doing your own research online if you already have some base knowledge about your workout.
Make a schedule.
At the beginning of each week, make a workout schedule, and treat your workouts like you would an appointment or business meeting – avoid canceling at all costs.
Find someone to keep you accountable.
You’re much more likely to stick to your workout if you have support from a friend. Find someone who is also working toward their own exercise goals, and consistently check in with each other and encourage each other to keep going. If you and your friend are doing the same exercise or are working toward similar goals, you could even workout together!
A healthy, happy lifestyle includes a consistent workout routine, and we at Baptist Health are committed to helping you overcome your barriers to exercise. Learn more about how you can get fit on the BHealthy blog.