Getting motivated to start an exercise routine can be the greatest challenge of all. Whether you have never exercised before or you are looking to switch up an existing routine, the following tips can help make you successful.
1. Set realistic goals
It is important to set realistic goals for yourself. Start with a plan that focuses on achievable results and make sure that the plan is tailored to your individual fitness needs and abilities.
2. Make a commitment
Commit to your goals and make sure that they are part of your daily routine. Make them a priority and keep yourself accountable by setting reminders or tracking your progress.
3. Start small
Start with small goals that are easy to reach. It’s important to build up your fitness level slowly and consistently. This can help you stay motivated and prevent burnout.
4. Mix it up
Make sure you mix up your routine. Switch up the type of exercise you do, starting from low intensity exercises and gradually increasing the intensity.
5. Have fun
Exercise should be fun and enjoyable. Choose activities that you enjoy and make sure you take breaks as needed.
6. Track your progress
Tracking your progress can be a great way to stay motivated. This can be done with a fitness tracker, following your progress in a journal, or simply taking progress pictures to compare and measure your progress.
7. Reward yourself
Rewarding yourself on regular occasions will help keep you motivated and excited to keep the routine going. Choose rewards that are meaningful to you.
Conclusion
Starting a new exercise routine is never easy but with the right tips, it can be incredibly rewarding. By setting realistic goals, committing to your routine and tracking your progress, you will have the opportunity to significantly improve your overall health. So start small and have fun along the way.
What are the benefits of having a regular exercise routine?
1. Weight loss/maintenance: Regular exercise can help you maintain your weight, control your body fat levels and help reduce your risk of obesity.
2. Stress relief: Exercise can act as a positive distraction from everyday worries. It can also help to reduce your overall stress levels.
3. Improved sleep: Combined with other healthy lifestyle habits, regular exercise may help to improve the quality of your sleep.
4. Improved mood: Exercise can release “feel-good” hormones in your brain called endorphins. This can help to lift your mood and make you feel good.
5. Increased energy: Regular exercise can give you more energy and help decrease the feelings of fatigue.
6. Improved self-esteem: Regular exercise can help to improve your self-confidence and the way you view yourself.
7. Stronger heart: Regular exercise can help to improve your heart health, and lower your risk of heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure.
8. Improved immune system: Regular exercise can help to boost your immune system, which can help your body fight off infections and illnesses.
9. Improved flexibility: Regular exercise can help to improve your flexibility, which can help to reduce your risk of injuries.
What are some examples of a regular exercise routine?
1. Walking or Jogging: Begin with a 5 to 10-minute walk; slowly increase the duration and intensity.
2. Cycling: Ride a stationary bike or go outdoors.
3. Swimming: Swim laps or without a specific distance.
4. Yoga: Practice different poses and breathing exercises to improve flexibility and strength.
5. Weight Training: Lift weights to build muscle and improve strength.
6. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): Alternate short bursts of activity with brief rest periods.
7. Stretching: Increase flexibility by stretching all major muscle groups.
8. Pilates: Follow a routine to improve posture, balance, and core strength.
What are the benefits of following a regular exercise routine?
1. Improved Heart Health: Regular exercise strengthens your heart muscle and improves your body’s ability to use oxygen. This lowers your risk of coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke.
2. Stronger Bones and Muscles: Regular exercise helps build bone density and muscle strength. This wards off osteoporosis and helps prevent falls, which are a major risk factor for fractures and other injuries.
3. Improved Mood: Exercise increases the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. This can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
4. Increased Energy and Stamina: Exercise can help make you more alert and give you more energy, which can help you feel more productive during the day.
5. Weight Control and Improved Body Composition: Regular exercise helps burn calories and keep body fat in check. It also helps build lean muscle mass, which increases metabolism and helps you burn more calories throughout the day.
6. Improved Cognitive Function: Exercise has been linked to improved memory, concentration, and thinking skills. This is especially true for older adults, who may see sharper declines in brain health and cognitive performance if they don’t exercise regularly.
