You know you should exercise, however, the tricky part is sticking to an exercise routine. You have tens of things on your to-do list, your schedule is overloaded and then finding time and dedication in the middle of it is difficult.
A good place to start is by understanding the bigger picture of why sticking to an exercise routine is important for your overall well-being. It’s not only good for your physical health but also your mental health. Physically you stay in good shape and mentally the endorphin hormones released by exercising promote feelings of euphoria and help you focus.
Working out and moving your body more improves your sleep, energy levels and reduces the risk of depression.
Now that you understand why you need to move away from being a couch potato to a fitness enthusiast, let’s get to a few reasons for sticking to an exercise routine.
- You need to be intentional about it
- Need a few strategic habit changes
- Understand your likes and dislikes
Here are the top tips from fitness enthusiasts for finding a workout you’ll actually enjoy and it may help you stick to an exercise routine.
1. Find A Workout You Enjoy
Just because Zumba is trending or Yoga is what your friends are raving about doesn’t mean you have to go for it. Begin by thinking about what you enjoy most- nature, dancing, sports, group setting, quiet time and then based on it look for activities that meet most of your criteria.
2. Add It To Your To-Do List Or Calendar
Schedule a few days for your workout like you would any other appointment. Don’t go for the higher goal of 5 days a week. Rather stick to a realistic goal of 3 days a week.
3. Breakup Your Workout Into Shorter Sets
Rather than skipping your workout because you don’t have time for the full routine, break it into shorter 10-minute spurts. Take short walks during the day rather than a 30-minute stretch or do a few reps of exercise when you have time and do the other few later.
4. Workout In The Morning And Be Done With
By the end of the day, you are usually tired and want to hit home. Why not exercise in the morning so you don’t have any excuse left for not sticking to your exercise routine? Morning workouts come with an extra set of benefits including lower blood pressure and feeling more energized throughout the day.
5. Carry Your Workout Gear Along
Let’s remove even the smallest obstacle like going back home to change for your workout. Bring your workout gear along with you so you can directly hit the gym after work. If you work out in the morning, keep your gym clothes handy the night before.
6. Play Your Favorite Music
Studies have found that playing your favorite music during your workout session increases the duration of your workout. The faster the beat the higher intensity you may go up to. You can even listen to a podcast or listen to a book while exercising.
7. Have A Plan B
So it’s pouring outside and you can’t go for a run, no problemo, put on some music and dance to it in your space. If you usually exercise outdoors and for some reason are unable to, don’t skip just change the exercise and the venue.
Want to learn more about how to become a fitness enthusiast from a couch potato? Check out our blogs related to exercise and fitness or register your profile and connect with one of our nurse wellness care navigators to learn more about how they can help you address your questions on starting and sticking to an exercise routine.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog or in any linked material is not intended and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. For holistic health advice and consultation, visit https://www.mywellself.ca/.
