We all know the feeling… You get inspired to start working out again. You hit the gym for a few days straight and you feel great! Maybe you keep it up for a few weeks and start noticing some muscles forming!
But then reality hits: work picks up again, midterm season comes, or your kids need a little extra time and energy from you… and now a few weeks go by without working out, and your time and energy spent at the gym disappear just as fast as your newfound muscles.
Don’t lose hope—there’s another way! It’s called… CONSISTENCY.
Try these tips to find the consistent exercise strategies that work for you and help you avoid burnout.
Find a Time – Every morning or every night, every lunch or after every dinner… whatever the time, find one that fits your schedule and that you enjoy. Because if you don’t like the time, then it just won’t last.
Every Little Bit Counts – Don’t have time for a 90 minute gym session? Don’t sweat it. A 5 minute, 10 minute, or 15 minute workout times every week is 20 times better than a 90 minute gym session once every-other week.
Quick Exercises
- Cardio: try a walk, jog, or bike ride. Even a jumprope in the office will do the job.
- Strength: pushups, pull-ups, prone holds, and lunges are great! And you can do those right at home if you don’t have time for the gym.
Have a Plan – If you don’t have a plan, you’re planning to fail. Set yourself up for success by planning out your workouts for the week.
Goals – Setting goals is a great motivator. Can you only do 8 pushups right now? How about setting a goal to be able to do 40 pushups at a time in one month from now?
Rewards System – If you exercise for 7 days straight, how can you reward yourself? Pick a healthy treat—maybe a Jamba Juice? Keep yourself motivated with a reward system that holds you accountable.
