We hear it all the time: regular exercise is necessary for good health. But establishing an exercise program can be difficult. Most of us don’t enjoy traditional exercise and, with everything else that must be taken care of in day-to-day life, it’s easy to make excuses as to why we haven’t addressed our physical fitness.
If you’ve gotten yourself going with regular exercise, you know that sometimes sticking with it can be even harder than starting in the first place. Setbacks happen, or life becomes busy and other things feel like they’re getting in the way of your fitness regimen. However, there are several ways to keep yourself on track with exercise, whether you’re just starting out or trying to stick with a program.
Don’t overdo
One of the biggest mistakes most people make with exercise is trying to do too much at once. You may feel like you can fly through an hour-long workout right from the start, but doing so will inevitably hinder your progress. Fitness goals that are too high at the start can also make exercise feel daunting rather than healthy.
Set realistic limits instead of pushing until you can’t push any more. If you can only lift three-pound weights, or can only get through fifteen minutes of a forty-minute workout video, start there. This way, you will build your fitness level steadily without risking an injury that could set you back for weeks at a time.
Be consistent
When you begin your fitness program, pick a time that is only for exercise and stick to it. Build your days around this block of time so that nothing runs into it or takes priority over it. Remember, consistency is key in reaching personal fitness goals. As long as you stick to your schedule, you will soon become used to having exercise as part of your daily routine.
Enjoy your fitness
It’s true that regular exercise isn’t always enjoyable. Sometimes it may seem like you’ll never get through your workout, especially when you’re beginning a new program with moves that challenge muscle groups you aren’t used to working. Don’t let this discourage you! Try different workouts until you find one that not only challenges you on a level you’re comfortable with, but also offers a combination of moves that you don’t mind doing. Over time, you may discover that there are even some fitness regimens that can be a lot of fun.
With a little patience and consistency, the task of establishing a personal exercise program can become less intimidating. Sticking with what you start is rewarding in many ways As your fitness level grows, so will your health, and you will begin to see and feel the difference in your body and your life!
