Do you have the desire to get in shape, but are struggling when it comes to sticking to an exercise routine?
If you have trouble finding the motivation to exercise, you’re not alone. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, one in four people are physically inactive.
Luckily, there are things you can do that will help you stick to your routine.
Check out this guide to discover the top tips for sticking with an exercise routine.
1. Vary Your Workouts
Oftentimes, people have trouble sticking to an exercise routine because they never vary their workouts. If you’ve been sticking to running and are bored out of your mind, it’s time to change things up.
And, don’t worry about picking the exercise that will burn the most calories or that will build the most muscle. Any educated exercise scientist or personal trainer will tell you that the best workout is the one that you’ll actually do. Here are some ways you can vary your exercise routine so it’s not so monotonous:
- Join a sports league such as soccer or flag football
- Go for hikes in nature on the weekend
- Try Youtube workout videos or download a workout app
- Hire a personal trainer
- Try a new workout- aerial yoga, bouldering, tap dancing, or pilates with a megaformer – the sky’s the limit!
As soon as you notice that you’re getting bored with your routine, it’s time to switch things up.
2. Plan Your Workout Week Ahead of Time
Have you ever noticed that you eat healthier when you plan out your meals ahead of time? Well, the same philosophy holds true for working out.
If you plan out your workout week ahead of time, you’re more likely to stick to your schedule. Take some time on Sunday evening to sit down and look at your week ahead. Write down the days and times you’re going to work out, as well as what type of workout you’re going to do each day.
3. Get a Buddy
Sometimes, all it takes is a good friend to keep you motivated.
If you find that you get bored working out alone, a little socialization may be all you need. Ask a friend to work out with you a couple of times a week. Or, you can join a gym or a local fitness group and meet people through that.
4. Set Goals
Oftentimes when working out, we lose sight of the “why”.
Sit down and think about why you started working out in the first place. Are you trying to lose some weight? Maybe you’re getting in shape for a 5k race? Or, maybe you want to combat your mental health issues?
Whatever the reason, writing down your goals can help you feel motivated to lace up your shoes and hit the gym. We suggest creating a big goal for your exercise routine and breaking it into smaller goals.
For example, your big goal may be to lose 15 pounds. A smaller goal could be to hit 10,000 steps every day of the week.
Are You Ready for Your New Exercise Routine?
Now that you know how to stick to an exercise routine, it’s time to put these tips into action. Before you know it, you’ll be addicted to your new routine!
Be sure to check back in with our blog for more exercise-related tricks and tips.
Laila Azzahra is a professional writer and blogger that loves to write about technology, business, entertainment, science, and health.