Getting Back On Track With Exercise

Welcome Life Juicer! It’s Wednesday and today we will discuss “Tips For Getting Back on Track With Exercise.” The holidays are over and maybe you have given yourself some time off during this busy season or perhaps you have set new resolutions for yourself, regardless now is the time to get back on track with healthy habits, including exercise. Getting started again after a break in routine is often a pitfall that is hard to overcome. Stop making excuses, start as soon as possible, and just go! You do not have to run a marathon today, but you must do something. Try easing back into a routine with your favorite workout or you might be more motivated if you were to experiment with something new. If you are still at a loss look to the following four tips to get you moving in the right direction again.

1. Start Small
It can seem overwhelming to begin exercising again after a fitness break. Depending on how long it has been since your last workout, you may find that your fitness level is not where it once was and you do not want to overdo it on your first day. Now is the time to start small. You do not have to go to the gym for a crazy work out session. Try a short workout, even if it is only ten minutes, that small amount of exercise is better than nothing at all. Starting small could include ten minutes of dancing around your living room, a quick run, or a brief fitness video. The process of starting small and increasing, followed up with discipline will get your habit exercising skills back on track.

2. Schedule Your Exercise
If you schedule your workouts like a meeting you are less likely to break the commitment. Plan out a realistic exercise schedule and put it on your calendar. Aim for at least four or five days of exercise per week. This is also a good time to look into new classes at your gym or try a new method of exercise that you have not tried before. Part of planning is also being prepared and organized. If you exercise in the mornings, layout your gear at night and if you plan to hit the gym after work, pack your bag the night before.

3. Set Short Term Goals
It is good to have a goal in mind, but be realistic. Set smaller short term goals that are achievable and map out how you will reach each target. Commit to a goal and then start as soon as possible working towards it, even if it is just a short walk or ten crunches on the first day. Then, push yourself a little bit harder each day after. Just take it one day at a time, while gradually adding to your workout and increasing your level of fitness and progress towards your goal.

4. Sneak Activity In
There are many ways to sneak extra movement into your day to help burn even more calories and get you back on track.
– Take a walk
– Garden or work in your yard
– Choose to climb the stairs
– Park your car further away from the entrance at the store or work
– Play (a sport, a game, with your kids, or with your dog)

Follow these 4 steps and you’ll be getting back on track with exercise in no time and remember juice strong to live long!

Image Credit: http://www.cutesybootsie.com/2014/06/getting-refocused.html