We all know we’re supposed to stay active, but how many of us have struggled with making exercise a daily habit?
Everyone!
It’s so amazing how fast our bodies adapt to exercises and how good we feel.
I’ve been suffering with GI issues for so long, I never feel like exercises, but once I do, I feel so much better.
Physically and mentally.
My motivation to feel even better, creates momentum that imporves my eating choices.
And packaged all together, my energy levels improve, which means I’m more productive and then I’m happier.
Because I can actually get shit done.
And I have the energy to do and enjoy activities with my kids and my family.
Exercise helps you to sleep better and keeps you generally healthier as you age. Exercise not only keeps your body in top form but leads to better moods and overall mental health.
Take the 6 Week Sleep Challenge
[PDF] 9 Simple Steps Checklist for Better Sleep
So how do you make exercise a daily habit?
Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll be on the road to building this healthy habit in no time!
1. Set time aside in your schedule.
Being deliberate about when you exercise means that it’s more likely to happen, even when life is busy.
Also, it trains your body that it’s time to move at a specific time each day. Before long, you’ll find yourself craving movement and the many benefits it offers.
Any time I say when I’m going to exercise it’s a lot easier to get going.
I really like to get my exercise out of the way first thing in the morning.
The first workout always starts up super sluggish, but the next day is so much better and easier.
Like I said, it’s so amazing how fast the body responds.
2. Use your smartphone.
Set a reminder on your phone for when it’s time to exercise, so you don’t forget.
9 Top Habit Tracking Apps | Building Habits Small Changes
Download motivating apps.
I’m in love with Strava right now.
Seeing others get outside to run, cycle, walk, hike, I love seeing their routes and photos.
It makes me want to get out there too.
3. Prepare yourself. Lay out your exercise clothes and gear the night before so you can’t use the excuse that you don’t have time to find everything.
Keep your exercise bag right near the door and ready to go.
4. Just leave when ready. Is it time to go? Don’t overthink it.
Just go whether you feel like it or not. Your body will click into gear once you get started.
5. Take baby steps. By starting small, you won’t overwhelm yourself, or worse, do damage to a body not ready for a heavy workout.
You can always increase your time/reps later when you become fitter.
6. Keep it fun and interesting. Noting screams boredom more than the same routine day after day.
Mix up what you’re doing – run a new route or try a new exercise machine at the gym. Adding new types of exercise also makes sure you are working all your different muscles too.
BodyRock 30 Day Challenge Day 1 to 30 [Real Time BodyRock Workouts]
7. Take a break – occasionally. As you build your new healthy habit, you don’t want to skip days. Consistency is key.
However, it’s good to have the occasional lighter exercise day when you’ve recently upped your game or when you are especially tired or sick.
Once you make exercise a daily habit, you’ll come to look forward to it. You won’t even think about it; you’ll just do it.
With so much benefit, it’s obvious that keeping a daily exercise habit is essential to a happier and healthier you!