Did your fitness take a back seat in 2023? The new year brings with it the perfect opportunity to usher in a new era of vitality and well-being. Bid farewell to any inactive habits that may have sneaked in and say hello to the energising embrace of workout regimens. This year, let’s make a collective commitment to prioritise our health, rekindle our enthusiasm for physical activity, and embark on a journey towards a healthier and more active lifestyle. Wondering how? We have curated a set of tips and tricks to help you get back on track.
Say Yes to Schedule
So, here’s a cool trick lots of regular exercisers swear by—treat your workout like you would a meeting and stick it right there on your calendar. That way, you’re way less likely to bail on it. Another easy move is to pick a day or two every week and commit to getting some exercise in, without making any excuses. Even if it’s just 15 or 20 minutes on a lazy Sunday, it keeps your body and mind in the game.
Set Achievable Goals
The key is to set goals that actually make sense for you. Start small, pick targets that fit your lifestyle, and things that you genuinely enjoy. Maybe it’s upping your step game, trying out some strength training, or checking out a fun new fitness class. When your goals are clear and doable, they’ll motivate you to do better.
Determine Your Existing Level of Fitness
It’s a smart move to figure out where you’re at fitness-wise. Think of it like setting the stage for your exercise journey. This not only helps you find a routine that feels right but also gives you a starting point to measure how far you’ve come. Now, you’ve got options here—you could team up with a pro, like a personal trainer or a physical therapist. They’re like your fitness GPS, guiding you on this adventure. Or, if you’re feeling like you can go DIY, you can do your own little assessment.
Monitor Your Fitness Development
Start by jotting down how many times a week you get your sweat on. And hey, celebrate the wins! Whether it’s levelling up from modified to full-on push-ups, setting a new record for your runs, or cranking up those weights, mark those victories. It’s like your personal fitness diary, boosting your motivation. So, to maintain your workout motivation, keep track of your victories and use them as your high five moments.
For Starters, Pick Something Simple
If you’re finding it tough to jump back into the exercise groove and everything seems a bit too much, don’t sweat it. Sometimes, it’s cool to kick things off with something simple. If hitting the gym for a hardcore weights session feels overwhelming, just step outside for a brisk walk or an easy jog to get the blood pumping. Once you start with something light and feel that good vibe, you’ll naturally want to keep it going and ease back into those healthy habits. It’s all about taking that first small step and building up from there!
Adopt a Mindfulness Strategy
Rather than tuning out during exercise, focus on your body’s sensations—the rhythm of your breath, the impact of your feet, and the flex of your muscles. This not only accelerates physical improvement but disrupts anxious thoughts, reducing stress. Engaging both arms and legs, activities like walking, running, swimming, weight training, rock climbing, skiing, or dancing serve as excellent mindfulness practices, enhancing overall well-being and aiding the nervous system.
Get Ready the Night Before
Struggling with early morning workouts? Revamp your routine by prepping your gym bag the night before and placing it bedside. Position the alarm on the opposite side of the room, ensuring you rise to turn it off. Once up and with the bag packed, might as well seize the opportunity to hit the gym. For post-work exercisers, adopt the same strategy: pack your bag and leave it by your desk, a visual cue that reinforces commitment and decreases the likelihood of skipping out. Easy hacks for reclaiming your fitness groove!
Look for a Workout Partner
Skipping a workout is a breeze when you’re only accountable to yourself. Partnering up with a friend, colleague, or family member transforms your fitness journey. Together, you boost motivation, keep each other on track, and stay committed to your workout routine. Plus, it adds a social touch, injecting a bit more fun into the whole exercise gig. Get yourself a workout buddy and make the fitness journey a team effort!
