If you’re having difficulty creating or committing to a workout routine, you are not alone. Life changes that have a lasting impact require a lot of discipline, and, as most know, life can get pretty crazy! That’s why we’re here with some easy-to-follow tips for creating and sticking to a workout routine.
Creating a Workout Routine
What’s the Goal?
First things first: Figure out what you’re trying to achieve. Do you want to tone muscles? Build endurance? Get strong? Your answer will determine your entire workout plan.
Consider the Timing
Next, consider how often you want to exercise and what needs to happen during each workout. An example would be committing to the gym four days per week, with two days dedicated to strength training and two days to cardio. Make sure you’re resting in between sessions.
Hit Shuffle
Our bodies adjust quickly, so switch up your routine every 8-12 weeks. This allows you to try new techniques every few months and keeps boredom at bay.
Track It
Thanks to technology, you can track your fitness journey in many ways. You can use a fitness tracker app, take progress photos, see how your clothes feel, or talk to your doctor to determine how your vitals have changed.
Sticking to Your Workout Routine
Just Get There
Many of us agree that the most challenging part of working out is getting motivated to start. That said, focus on getting there. Once you’re where you need to be, all that’s left to do is move your body.
It’s Not All or Nothing
Say you wake up late. Instead of your usual hour-long workout, you can only get in 30 minutes. You’re now faced with the choice of hitting the gym for 30 minutes OR saying “forget it” and deciding that if you can’t go for an hour, you aren’t going at all. You can probably guess where we’re heading. What’s important is that you consistently devote time to moving your body. So if some days that looks like squats while you brush your teeth, so be it!
It Won’t Always Go as Planned
It’s okay if some days you need to ease into your exercises. This just means you’re listening to your body. Every day is different, and not all workouts go as planned.
It’s Like a Reward
When you’re struggling to find motivation, come up with a little treat for yourself, like a pedicure, a new book, or an evening Netflix binge.