Most of us are already familiar with the numerous benefits regular exercise brings such as energy boost, physical aptness and reduction of stress and depression. Although this may be enough to get us started, it often doesn’t last long.
The reasons behind it lay in numerous mind obstacles, as well as in poor organisation and faulty approach. Don’t let your fitness level, age or lifestyle discourage you to start and persevere in your exercise routine. Bear with us to find out how you can manage it yourself and stick to it.
Safety above all
- If you have some chronic or serious medical condition, consult with your doctor about limitations you should insert in your exercise plan
- The minimal warming up is a crucial first step of the workout session, as it prevents the damage sudden strain of muscles may bring
- Always stay hydrated by drinking copious amounts of water, especially in the summer, and steer clear of the nasty side-effects of dehydration
- If the workout brings your great discomfort or pain, rest a bit and resume slowly. Don’t ignore the signals your body’s sending you
OUT WITH THE OLD EXCUSES
To start on the right foot, we have to remove the mind obstacles we ourselves have put up and dispel the common exercise related myths.
Busy schedule
We don’t expect you to mimic the daily routine of the highly successful businessman who gets up at 5 AM, does some yoga, runs a few miles and then resumes his daily duties. Even short activities that last 5-15 minutes can make a difference.
The fatigue
Although it may sound counterintuitive, the sense of (mental) tiredness can be ousted with physical exertion. This will pump up the endorphins and make us more energised.
I’m too this, I’m too that
Workout doesn’t discriminate with age, body weight or health. There’s a routine for everyone, you only have to adjust it to your specific needs with a help of a doctor and/or personal trainer.
It hurts
As we have previously mentioned, the workout must not be a painful activity. Ditch the no pain, no gain motto and embrace the effective but manageable activities such as housework, swimming or playing sports.
I’m not an athletic type
PE wasn’t your subject of choice? Don’t worry, real life doesn’t measure our running time. Do whatever’s comfortable to you, as long as it keeps you moving.
IN WITH THE NEW GOOD HABITS
Take baby steps
Remember that your body is probably severely out of shape and it needs gradual introduction of activities. Keep it simple and start small (with walking) and slowly increase the workout difficulty. Note that getting overly ambitious will only set you up for frustration and quitting.
The happiness factor
You definitely don’t want to be miserable all the time during your workout. Select the activities that make your feel confident and relaxed. You don’t have to exercise at the gym or run in the park during rush-hour.
If it’s summer time, run or walk early in the morning, or at night, when the temperature drops a bit, if you want to avoid the prying eyes. Make sure to wear appropriate reflective gear to keep you safe and visible.
Organisation and other helpful points
- Schedule your workout sessions and ask a friend to monitor your success
- Get prepared and leave nothing to chance
- The chores are exercise too, so make them count
- Walk everywhere you can and take the stairs
Becoming more active is not only about the initial motivation. It’s in fact more about great organisational skills, plan personalisation and choosing the enjoyable activities.