How to Begin an Exercise Habit That Sticks
By Genevieve Cunningham
You’ve probably been told over and over again: Exercise is something you should definitely be doing. But while we all know this information, it’s a lot harder to put into action. If you’re finally ready to get an exercise habit and actually make it stick, take a look at these tips that can get you moving in the right direction.
Find Your Personal Goals
The hard truth is that exercise habits won’t stick unless you have some very personal reasons to make it happen. While “better health” or “lose weight” are good generic goals, they aren’t personal enough to keep you going through the tough times. Instead, look for some very specific goals that can keep your eye on the prize. It might be a pair of pants you’re dying to wear or a certain number you wish to hit on the scale. Or maybe it’s a certain drop in cholesterol or an improvement in heart function. Whatever your reason, find it. Make this the reason for getting up and getting moving, and you’re much more likely to do it.
Make a Specific Time
Unless you make a time for something, it’s probably not going to happen. You’ll find an excuse or push it off until it’s too late. Instead of allowing this to happen, just set a time for exercise and stick with it. Maybe it’s first thing in the morning, or it might be directly after work. It doesn’t matter what time it is, as long as that time works for you. But working it into your schedule is one of the best ways to make it more of a priority in everyday life.
Keep It Fun
If working out is a chore and it’s boring, you’re not going to stick with it. Working out should be challenging, but it should also be fun. So how can a workout be fun when you don’t enjoy exercise? Shop around for something you like. If you don’t enjoy running, don’t do it. Try cycling, aerobics, karate, or Zumba. Or if you like variety, feel free to change it up all of the time.
Working out is so good for the body, mind, and soul. But for many people, it’s also a tough habit to make stick. Use these tips to get your motivation up and your body moving. With a little time and hard work, you’ll improve your health and fitness and maybe even enjoy the process, too.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Smyrna, Ga.
