How to make fitness a habit
Updated: Jan 10
Do you want to make exercise part of your regular routine? Here are five tips to help you turn fitness into a habit.
Forming any new habit is a journey of commitment that will require effort early on until it becomes a consistent part of your routine. If making physical fitness is one of yours, here are some tips to help you make exercise part of your life so that you can reach your #goals.
1. Get clear on your goals
If you want to make fitness a habit, you will need to have the right motivation. This will require you to really understand the reason behind setting these goals. Having something meaningful to come back to and inspire you will help to keep you on track.
Ask yourself whether you want to lose weight, build confidence or accomplish something. Once you’ve identified these deeper reasons you can remind yourself of them when motivation lacks (it happens)!
2. Set a Realistic Schedule…
In order for an activity to become habitual, you need to have space for it in your life. So consider your current schedule, including your work, time off and any other responsibilities you have on a daily basis. Then look at ways to factor in some fitness!
Make sure you aren’t stretching yourself too thin and setting expectations you won’t be able to meet as this will just set you up for disappointment.
3. … And Stick to It!
Once you have a realistic workout schedule planned out for a week – or even a
month – try your best to stick to it! If your body is tired, show up anyway and modify your routine.
Consistency is key because it reminds your body that it is working towards something. Finding a time that works for you will also help you to stay on track.
4. Set Up a Rewards System
Aiming to reach specific milestones? Add a reward system to your calendar to let you know when it’s time to celebrate! Perhaps you could treat yourself to your favourite meal after accomplishing your first week. Maybe after the second, it could be a new outfit!
Regardless of whether they’re small or large, these rewards can train your brain and motivate you, subconsciously, to keep going.
5. Know it’s Okay to Miss a Day
No one is perfect and life can often get in the way of our plans. When this happens, you can find a way to rearrange your class. If not, take it easy and don’t be too hard on yourself.
A fitness journey is just that – a journey. And with it will come ups and downs. You’re human! Embrace the journey and keep moving forward.
Find a routine that works for you, be consistent and, most importantly, have fun. Your body is capable of so many amazing things – don’t let your mind tell you otherwise!
Soon you’ll be able to see this new habit forming and its positive impact on your life. You’ve got this!