You know exercise is an activity you should do every day, but sometimes procrastination takes over, and you find yourself ending another day without lacing up your sneakers. Even if you’re not a natural runner, a born athlete, or someone who adores the smell of dirty gym socks, there’s no reason to think you can’t have a great workout.
Here are a few things to think about the next time you’re having trouble finding the motivation to head to the gym or hit the pavement.
1. Try something new
The quickest way to reach exercise burnout is to do the same thing every day. If you aren’t already in love with running, going on a jog each day will get pretty tough after a few months. If you hate lifting weights, you probably won’t stick with it for very long if that’s all you do. If you haven’t yet found an activity you love, try a new exercise each week until you find something that inspires you.
2. Find a great playlist
The memories of our lives are illustrated with music, and a good song can help you work out harder, run faster, and have a more energizing workout. Studies even suggest that people who exercise with music have a better time. Enjoy an afternoon creating a playlist of songs you love, and take that playlist with you on your next exercise adventure.
3. Choose an activity where you excel
Think back to the activities you participated in during grade school. Was there a sport where you won awards or where you enjoyed spending time with friends? Rediscover that activity and renew your enthusiasm for a healthy activity. You can even build confidence participating in a sport where you feel you can excel.
4. Exercise when you want
If you’re not a morning person, don’t assume a 6 AM jogging appointment will be one you keep. Exercise after work when you can’t hit the snooze button. Conversely, if you’re always the first one up in the morning, lace up your sneakers and head out for some exercise before work.
5. Find a workout buddy
It’s 8 AM on a Saturday, and your best friend is waiting for you for a trail run. Do you hit the snooze alarm again or do you quickly get dressed and head out the door? Exercising with a friend is an ideal way to eliminate procrastination, and you’ll feel awesome as you get healthier alongside a friend.
6. Work out on your own terms
It’s almost impossible to avoid the influence of modern media and advertising when it comes to health, exercise, food, and our bodies. However, the decision to exercise must be a personal one that comes from your own desire to improve your health and wellness. Don’t get a gym membership because a magazine recommends it. Go to the gym because you’re meeting your best friend for some quality time with the free weights. Don’t join a class because a talk show host tells you exercise is important. Take an aerobics class because you love dancing and music.
The bottom line? The best way to form a consistent exercise habit is to find an activity you love. You can work hard and see results, but it’s much more fun to play hard and have a blast!
