Even though you know exercise is essential, how do you keep up with your training routine while juggling other commitments such as work and social events? For instance, how do you start exercising if you haven’t done so in years? It can be daunting thinking about starting or restarting an exercise schedule. With the right approach, you can master your new exercise schedule. If you are getting ready to get started, consider the following tips.
Start By Doing Workouts You Enjoy
Getting the right workout is important, and it can quickly become much easier to stick to a routine with workouts you enjoy. Think about some activities that require movement that you enjoy, and start there. For example, if you are an avid outdoorsman, trying new hikes in the area could be a great option. Doing something you enjoy can make it feel less like a workout and more enjoyable.
Start Small
A goal of exercising at least 30 minutes a day can be a good idea, but how likely are you to reach it? Setting ambitious goals can lead to failure, so start with easy objectives that you can easily achieve. Once you get these goals, you can start setting more challenging ones. Going back to the hiking example, start with a shorter hike that can be done in 30 minutes – 1 hour. This can help build your overall discipline, making it easier in the future.
Find Your Workout “Triggers”
One of the most important factors that people can consider when it comes to establishing a healthy exercise habit is the use of triggers. These simple yet effective tools can help them stick to their routine. They can be triggered by a time of day, a cue, or a place. Having these triggers can help keep the momentum going and prevent you from getting distracted.
You wake up at your usual time and go out for your walk. You then head to the gym after leaving work. You can start doing exercise a part of your day by finding ways to build your own routine.
Schedule Your Workouts
You don’t just attend meetings spontaneously. You also schedule appointments and ensure you have the time to attend to them. If you are having a hard time making exercise part of your schedule, consider scheduling it as an important part of your day. This can make it feel more natural and part of that day’s schedule.
Remove Barriers To Your Workouts
If you have a hectic schedule, it’s important to plan ahead for any potential problems that might prevent you from exercising. For instance, if you’re always running out of time, getting your clothes ready the night before can help ensure you’ll be ready to start your morning routine. If you’re planning on going to the gym after work, make sure that you bring a gym bag with you.
Be Kind To Yourself
Starting a new habit can be difficult, especially when first starting out. There may be weeks where you only get one workout in, whether from a busy schedule or a dip in motivation. This is why you need to be kind to yourself when this happens. Each week will not bring perfect workouts, and that is okay. Being kind to yourself can make the workouts feel less stressful and daunting.