C is for consistency. It’s crucial to give exercise priority and set aside regular time. If not, other activities will take precedence. Just like brushing your teeth, eating right and getting enough sleep, regular exercise is an essential part of health and wellness. The hardest part is getting started so we’ve got some tips to get you up and going.
- Schedule time and make exercise a priority. First thing in the morning or on the way home from work are great times to work out.
- Get inspired by tracking the number of calories that you burn, steps that you take or intensity of your workout with a fitness tracker or app.
- Find an exercise buddy.
- Visualize a slimmer, fitter you.
- Subscribe to fitness magazines.
- Reward yourself with flowers, movie tickets or another small gift for work well done.
- Sign up for a class.
- Get a coach or trainer.
- Post a “before” picture somewhere that you will see throughout the day.
- Post an “after” picture of your younger, fitter days or someone you aspire to look like.
- Measure your success with a tape measure, scale or pair of tight jeans.
- Sign up for a 5K walk or run and you’ll be motivated to train.
- Set goals.
- Go social and post your exercise plan and frequent updates.
- Start slowly and build up to where you would like to be.
- Perfection is unrealistic—if you miss a day or two get right back to it.
- If you have an injury that keeps you from your usual exercise, see if there is something else that you can do.
- Use positive self-talk—“I can do this!”
- Use upbeat music to distract your attention and increase the intensity of your workout.
- Couple your workout with something else you enjoy–walk on the treadmill while watching your favorite show or read a book or magazine while pedaling on a stationary bike.
See, exercise is as simple as ABC and is an important building block of health and wellness. Take that first step today.
