Here’s why and how to exercise often and stay consistent for better results.
You did it! You made the decision to exercise and actually went to the gym. You’ve been going to the gym for a little bit now and feeling pretty good. Yeah, you started working out before and just fell off the wagon, but this time is going to be different. What about that new show that is going to be starting? Or what if you stayed up a little bit later than usual watching a favorite movie and just can’t bear the thought of going to the gym? Or you stayed up all night with your child because they couldn’t fall asleep. Or what if you just plain don’t want to go?
There are various reasons why individuals don’t workout on a consistent basis.
The recommended amount for exercise is at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week, or a combination of both. Here are a few tips on how to increase exercise adherence. To get that workout in more often and on a consistent basis. They are in no particular order. Let’s begin!
Tips on How to Exercise Often and Stay Consistent
Have a strong purpose
The difference between having a reason for going and having a strong purpose can mean you go or you don’t. Having a strong purpose is what is going to get you to that workout when you’re feeling too tired. It’s going to get you up at 5am to get that run in. It’s going to get you to opt for the healthier choice over that jelly doughnut Susan brought into work for the pot luck. These are just a few examples. Sometimes you need to dig deep! When thinking of your goal as your yourself What does this mean to me? How would reaching this goal impact my life? Maybe it will give you more confidence to apply for that job you want or ask your boss for that promotion you know you deserve. Maybe it will give you more energy to play with your kids and spend time with them in a way you haven’t been able to do before.
It’s OK to have fun
Exercising doesn’t need to be a chore. When we’re doing activities we enjoy we tend to want to do them more often (crazy idea I know!) Think about the activities you enjoyed doing as a child.
Maybe it was playing Basketball or Football. Perhaps playing Soccer or Softball, any organized sport. Maybe playing on the jungle gym was more your thing, or going swimming at the local pool. There are plenty of exercises that mimic parts of these activities that can be included in your workout. Check out basketball drills, football drills, obstacle course racing exercises etc. It’s OK to have fun with your workout!
Make it a priority
Do you wake up every morning with gusto saying “Wow I can’t wait to start work today!” (If you do bravo to you! You’re one of the fortunate ones) Most likely not. You made it a priority. Apply that same mindset to your workouts. Much like going to work, schedule the work out. At this time on this day I’m going to workout. Look to make it a routine. When it comes to working out you are your own boss. When you call in sick to work you have a boss to answer to. When you choose to forgo that workout you have yourself to answer to. Don’t let yourself down!
Your home can be your gym
You don’t need an expensive gym membership or fancy equipment to get a good workout in! There’s plenty of functional fitness body weight exercises that can be done at home. If you’re looking to add more resistance, dumbbells, kettlebells, and resistance bands offer great benefits and are generally affordable. With virtual training being more common place, plenty of resources to find great at home workouts. No excuses!
Have a strong support system
It is said having a strong support system can increase your chance of success up to 40%! Have someone help hold you accountable. You can also find a gym or community center that has a strong sense of community where members encourage each other to be successful. Surround yourself with those who want to see you succeed and respect your healthy active lifestyle.
Hope you find these tips helpful. Staying consistent will lead to great results!
