- New workout clothing.
I’m not telling you to go out and buy an entire wardrobe. But having a few new items of workout gear, can give yourself a little mind trick to get you in the mood to exercise.
2. Be consistent with your routine.
Consistency is the goal. Generally, when starting a routine-the first 2 weeks are the most difficult. Creating a morning routine is the best way to stick with a routine. However, find a time within your schedule that fits best.
3. Try to avoid peak gym hours.
If you’re starting out with a gym routine, arriving at the gym during peak hours can make your experience that must more intimidating. Avoiding peak hours, can create an easier atmosphere to navigate an exercise routine and accessing equipment.
4. Find an alternative “gym” space.
Having a space at home or a park to exercise (other than the gym), can take the monotonous feeling out of it. It can also act as a back up plan for when your schedule doesn’t permit actual gym time.
5. Keep it Simple.
Don’t bite off more than you can chew. By all means, push yourself in a positive direction. But don’t create such drastic changes, by setting yourself up for failure.
Ex: Go from zero exercise routine to a 5-6 day routine with drastic diet changes.
6. Go for a walk.
Go for a walk either by yourself or with someone to have a chat while you walk. Studies, have shown even a simple 20 minute walk improves stress and blood pressure levels.
7. Moderation is key.
If you want the cookie-eat the damn cookie. However, the cookies in moderation. Drink 1 canned soda a day instead of 3. You’ll have much greater changes of success sticking with a routine when you implement steady changes verse a up right drastic change and deprive yourself.
8. Have fun with it.
Always have fun with it. Sign up for Tough Mudder’s, 5k, or obstacle courses. Even as something simple and silly as listening to Disney music during your workout. Whatever you can do to keep it less “serious” to keep yourself on the right track. If you don’t enjoy doing it, you’ll be less inclined to do it.
9. Experiment with your food.
Look up different recipes and play in the kitchen. You’ll be surprised what foods you actually like simply by trying different items. Doesn’t hurt to try new things-if it turns out you don’t like it. You’re no worse off then you were before.
10. Drink more water.
If you’re part of the group of people who “doesn’t like water”, that’s fine. Changing a soda to a water with Crystal Light packet or Mio is perfectly acceptable. Consuming more water enables your body to process and function more easily.