Establishing a routine

If physical activity becomes part of your routine then you are more likely to stick to it. Some strategies for making this happen include:

Start small

When starting off, it’s better to set yourself a realistic, achievable goal for activity. Saying you are going to exercise for 30 minutes every day sounds great but if you aren’t able to follow through with it, then you can see it as a failure and give up.

Start with small goals, build momentum and you can expand on them when you feel more confident.

Do something you enjoy

Finding an exercise you love is a game-changer! When you enjoy working out, it stops feeling like a chore and becomes something you genuinely look forward to. It’s all about finding that activity that makes you smile, whether it’s dancing, hiking, or playing a sport.

When you enjoy exercise, you’re more likely to stick with it and make it a regular part of your life. Plus, it’s not just about physical fitness. It boosts your mood, reduces stress, and can even help you connect with others.

Track your progress

Tracking your progress is great for keeping you motivated, provides insights into how you are doing and for setting yourself targets. This doesn’t mean that you have to buy an expensive fitness tracker. Most smartphones will automatically track your steps or you can download a free app to track them.

If you don’t have a smartphone then clip on pedometers are a good inexpensive option.

Do it together

Exercising with friends is a fantastic way to stay motivated, have fun, and achieve your fitness goals. Whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or trying out a new workout class, having the support of friends can make the experience even more enjoyable.

Not only does exercising with friends provide a social aspect to your fitness routine, but it also creates a sense of accountability, making it harder to skip workouts.

Reward yourself

Rewarding yourself for achieving activity goals is an excellent way to reinforce positive behaviour and maintain motivation on your journey toward a healthier lifestyle.

Whether it’s hitting a weight loss target, completing a challenging workout routine, or reaching a fitness milestone, treating yourself to a well-deserved reward can boost your sense of accomplishment and make the journey more enjoyable.