Looking to get into better shape, but having a hard time sticking with your exercise goals? If so, then you need some help with accountability. Fortunately, there are plenty of small yet effective changes you can make to hold yourself more accountable to your fitness goals and stay on-track!
Invest in a Fitness Tracker
If you don’t have one already, treat yourself to a wearable fitness tracker, such as a FitBit or Jawbone UP. These are great for keeping you motivated because they allow you to set specific goals (such as taking a certain number of steps per day or exercising a certain number of times per week) and track them. Some will even buzz or beep to remind you when you’re falling behind on your goals!
Find a Gym/Workout Buddy
Having someone else to hold you accountable can make all the difference, too. Consider finding a partner who will accompany you to the gym each day or simply go for a walk/jog around the neighborhood with you on weekends. Having someone else to exercise with will make you less likely to mentally justify skipping your workouts and can make working out more fun.
Track Progress and Set Small Goals
It’s easy to fall off the wagon if you don’t feel like you’re making progress. Therefore, make sure you’re setting small goals along the way and celebrating little victories as they arise. For example, while you might eventually want to lose 30 pounds, acknowledging/celebrating that first five-pound loss is key to staying motivated and keeping yourself on-track. Even spending an extra five minutes on the treadmill is something to be proud of, so keep track of all your progress, no matter how small it seems.
Set Out Gym Clothes at Night
If you have a hard time getting up and hitting the gym first thing in the morning, try setting your workout clothes out at night so they’re ready and waiting for you when you wake up. This tiny little change can make all the difference and save you the time of choosing a gym outfit in the morning. While you’re at it, go ahead and pack a protein bar and water bottle to take with you!
Staying accountable for your fitness can be difficult, especially if you sometimes lack the motivation you need to work out. By making these small changes, though, you may be surprised at how much easier it is for you to stay on track with your exercise and fitness goals.
