It’s not uncommon for people to start an exercise routine and only keep at it for a little bit of time. It can be difficult to stay motivated long enough to reach some of your fitness goals. You may get bored with your workout routines, find you don’t like the results you’re getting or maybe you find it difficult to make time to workout.
1. Set Achievable Goals
To set realistic goals, start with simple ones and then gradually increase the amount of time you dedicate to achieving them. Remember to make them realistic and achievable.
For instance, if you’re planning on walking 10 minutes a day for five days a week, then set an intermediate goal of 30 minutes. A longer-term goal could be to reach a goal of completing a 5K walk.
For most adults, the recommended amount of exercise is 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity a week. It can be combined with other forms of exercise for optimal results.
2. Join A Fitness Studio
Another great way to stay motivated and keep your workouts a priority is to join a fitness studio. You can choose a fitness studio based on how you enjoy working out. If you enjoy hot yoga, you can find a hot yoga studio, or if you prefer cycling, you can join a cycling studio near you. Joining some classes offered at the fitness studio can keep you on track with your goals.
3. Make it Fun
When it comes to keeping your routine interesting, try something new. If you’re not exactly sure which sport or activity to join, try participating in a different kind of game or activity. Various websites feature videos of different types of exercise classes. Exercising never has to be boring. If you switch it up regularly, you will have more fun and stay motivated.
4. Find Activities to Do Daily
It can be difficult for busy people to find time each day to be active. However, a lack of time shouldn’t be used as an excuse. Scheduling your workouts should be important. You can also get active throughout the day by walking or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. When watching the kids, take a walk with them.
If you work from home, try stretching or climbing stairs at breaks. Or, if you have a dog, walk it while you take a lunch break. Studies show that prolonged sitting may have negative effects on your health. If you work for multiple hours a day, try taking a few breaks to move. This can include walking to a designated water or coffee shop or standing during video calls.
5. Keep a Goal Journal
A diary is a great way to keep track of all of your exercise activities and progress. It can help remind you of how far you’ve come and how much effort you put in to reach your goals.
Having a goal journal is a great way to keep track of all of your goals and motivate yourself to reach them. By writing them down, you will be able to see the potential benefits of regular exercise.
6. Bring Along Friends and Family
You can also invite other people to join you in working out or participating in various forms of exercise. This can be a great way to get people together and form a group exercise routine.
7. Be Flexible
If you can’t commit to a full-fledged exercise routine due to time constraints, try taking a few days off. Doing so will allow you to get back on track.
8. Reward Yourself
Take a few minutes to enjoy the feeling of being active after each exercise session. This can help you make a long-term commitment to exercise. When reaching a long-range goal, treat yourself to new clothes or music.
After setting goals, make it fun and keep up the momentum by regularly patting yourself on the back. Physical activity is for life and should always stay a priority.