I think most people know just how important exercising is. We’ve all read an article somewhere enumerating its benefits. But even if you’ve purchased a gym membership at Mountainside Fitness, you still find it difficult to stick to your training routine. Juggling between work, family, business trips and your social life – it can be difficult to find the time to exercise.
But is it really impossible?
No.
In fact, I’m going to share a few “tricks” to help you stick to your exercise routine and make it part of your day to day activities.
Trick #1: Find a workout that works for you!
Sure, everyone’s doing running, CrossFit or yoga. But you don’t have to jump on the bandwagon. If you prefer long hikes or mountain climbing then you should go for it. The key is to do it on a regular basis. Going for long hikes once every two months is exercise but it would hardly be beneficial to your health. Try hiking nearby trails every weekend instead.
Trick #2: Put it on your calendar.
Remember the saying, “out of sight out of mind”? If you make plans only in your head, chances are, life will get in the way and you’ll just as easily forget. Schedule 2-3 days a week to go to the gym and find a time in your schedule that works for you. Of course it’s nice to be able to start your day with a good workout but is waking up at 5AM really doable for you? If not, then be more realistic!
Trick #3: Make it attainable.
This one is somewhat related to trick #2. It’s nice to be able to workout 5x a week but if you’re too busy, then you know very well it’s not going to happen. I know a lot of people who work on their phones and spend many hours in the gym each week. Good for them. But if you spend most of your days typing on your computer or meeting with people then don’t set a goal that requires you to spend half a day in the gym 5x a week.
Trick #4: Break up your exercise routine.
Who has time for a 45 minute spin class these days? Not me. So what I do is I have a stationary bike in the office and I go in 3 x 15-minute spins on there every day. It’s a lot easier when you break up your workouts into shorter sessions.
Trick #5: Start your day with exercise.
It’s easier to stick to your workout schedule if you do it before anything else. You’ll likely be tired after a full day at work. Or something else might come up. Besides, morning workouts are also great for lowering blood pressure and keeping you energized the rest of the day.
Trick #6: Prepare your workout clothes the night before.
You want to make the path to your workout routine as seamless as possible which means you should prepare all the stuff you need the night before. Bring your gear to work (or in the car). If you work from home, wear your workout attire while working.
Need more help with sticking to your exercise routine? Watch this Joe Rogan video for some extra motivation: