Not getting enough exercise? Here’s a fun and simple strategy that will help you start and stick to a daily exercise routine. Before you know it, you’ll look and feel better than you have in a long time!
Most people fail at developing an exercise routine because they pick a type of exercise that they hate.
- They try to do too much, too soon.
- They set unrealistic goals.
- They beat themselves up for not being good at it.
No wonder so many people dread the idea of exercising! This does not have to be you. Instead, try this:
Step 1: Brainstorm at least 5 different ways to exercise that don’t sound miserable to you.
You’re not going to be able to stick with something that you hate. There are so many different ways to get exercise: Walking, Swimming, Tennis, Volleyball, Dancing, Pickleball, Jogging, Aerobics, HIIT Classes, Barre, Weightlifting, Crossfit, Orangetheory, Yoga, Strength Training, Fitness Boot Camps, Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Kickball, Golf, Hiking, Rock Climbing, Zumba, Cycling, Weight Lifting, Spin Classes, Pilates, and so many more! Pick at least 5 that sound fun or, at the very least, don’t sound miserable.
Step 2: Try every single item on your list JUST ONCE.
Most people go all-in on the first thing they try and quit because they just don’t end up enjoying it. They sign up for the gym, bounce on the elliptical machine a few times, hate it, and then stop going. There’s a better way! Most gyms and classes offer a free trial. Take full advantage of these! Have fun trying out every single item on your list just one time. Don’t commit to anything until you’ve tried everything on your list once.
Step 3: Commit to your favorite and focus on having fun.
At this point, you’ve gotten past the hardest part and have found a type of exercise that you don’t hate. It’s time to commit and develop a routine. Go slow. Don’t try to do too much too soon. You’re probably not going to be very good at it at first, and that’s okay! Focus on having fun above all else. If it’s fun, you’ll stick with it and start to get good at it over time. Before you know it, exercising will become your favorite part of each day.