You know it’s good for you, but maybe you’re not sold on exercise yet. Haven’t found your “why” yet? It’s time to do a little soul-searching and ask yourself just what it would take to get you to exercise regularly.
Don’t know where to start? Listen to the experts. Research shows that when you find ways to motivate yourself, you’re more likely to succeed over the long term.
If you’re looking for inspiration, exercise educators Dan Wise and Rhiannon Polak have some ideas:
- Embrace the buddy system. When you find an exercise partner, you’re more likely to stick to your plan. You might be able to skip a day or two when you’re on your own, but it’s a whole lot harder to do when someone else is counting on you.
- Seek out fun. When you head to an exercise club, gym or class, it’s easier to stay on track because you can try new activities and mix things up. Whether it’s yoga, tai chi or spin, find something you love that gets you pumped up to keep coming back.
- Always be ready. When you keep a packed gym bag in your car, you’ll have one less excuse to skip exercise after work.
- Move to the beat. Music is a great way to get pumped up for your workout. Make your own playlist or find a curated playlist on your favorite streaming service to help keep your body moving.
- Get creative. You don’t have to stick to standard exercises to get and stay fit. Try mall walking, dancing, swimming or anything else that gets your blood pumping. It all counts.
- Kick your gear up a notch. Ditch the polyester, which doesn’t breathe or absorb sweat. Instead, choose workout wear that’s designed to let you move and that wicks any sweat away from your skin. Cherry on top? Pick items you feel great in to put a little extra bounce in your step.
- Get it on the calendar. Look at your schedule once a week and make a meeting with yourself to exercise a few times. Sound simple? It is. After all, you’re the only one who can make it happen, and planning ahead will ensure you have the time booked to keep your fitness promises to yourself.
