Are you struggling to stick to an exercise routine? We hear you; we’ve been there.
You’ve started off really motivated. You’ve bought new runners, workout clothes, even a new drink bottle. You’ve joined a new gym or bootcamp or downloaded a new workout app to try. You’re ready to take on this new wellness challenge. Alarm is set, one hour earlier, because you’re going to seize the day!
The alarm goes off at 5.30am. Snooze. Another 10 minutes in bed. A little longer, it’s getting cold. Too late to exercise now, I’ll do it after work. I ate too much at lunch and don’t have the energy for a run. I’ll take the dog for a walk instead. Sun’s almost gone down, maybe I’ll just try again tomorrow.
And on repeat we go. But that’s okay, because we’re here to tell you our three tips for success with your exercise routine!
Step 1: Simplify your routine and do what works for you!
If you’re not a morning person, don’t make yourself get up early in the morning to workout. You won’t stick to this routine. Find time in the afternoon or during your lunch break at work to exercise. Aim for 30 minutes a day, but you can break that up into two 15-minute sessions.
Step 2: Listen to your body and pick your workout based on your energy levels
High energy – You’re ready to take on the world! In this instance, you have plenty of energy to complete:
- Strength workout of lifting weights
- 30-minute HIIT session
- One-hour gym class
- Boxing class.
Medium energy – You’re motivated to workout but not with the ‘go hard or go home’ attitude. Medium energy calls for:
- 15 to 20 minutes HIIT session
- Going for a run or walk with your dog.
Low energy – Do I have to do anything? YES. Movement is movement. Here are our ideas for low energy exercise:
- Netflix and move! Pop on your favourite show and complete an arms and abs workout.
- Pilates or yoga class
- Stretching session
- Walking your dog around the block.
If you try to go hard when you have low energy, you will tire quickly, lack the motivation to finish your workout, and possibly even give up and wait for Monday.
The idea of picking your workout based on your energy levels means more room for success. You won’t burn out and stop altogether. You’ll be more motivated to keep going.
Step 3: Treat exercise as your selfcare time
Mindset is everything. Maybe it’s time to switch your thinking from ‘I need to exercise to lose weight’ to ‘exercising is my ME time, it’s 30 minutes where I focus only on myself.’
If you exercise in the morning, maybe it’s the great start to your day.
If you exercise in the afternoon, maybe it’s your way to de-stress from the day.
Do what works for you. And don’t wait until Monday to start the routine, start today!
Once you get into a routine or habit of exercising, you’ll notice incredible changes to your life:
- Your confidence will grow
- Your mental health will improve
- Sleeping will be easier
- You’ll meet new people and make friends
- You will think more clearly
- And you’ll have fun!
To help you track your exercise routine, we’ve printables for you!