When you are working for yourself, you know the importance of setting goals, managing your time and creating positive habits. It’s no different with exercise.
Applying some of the same thinking to your exercise routine can also help you reach your exercise goals. Try these fitness and productivity tips to lead a better and healthier lifestyle.
If you think of exercise as a chore, something you “have to do”, you won’t want to do it. Instead think about it in positive terms, as something you “choose” to do or “want” to do.
One of the habits in Stephen R. Covey’s book ‘The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People’ is visualisation. Next time you’re lacking motivation, picture yourself happy, energetic and enjoying a delicious meal after an invigorating exercise session. Or envision yourself crossing that marathon finish line or looking sleek and svelte in a new outfit.
Don’t leave it until you’re ready to work out to find your exercise clothes or decide what to do. Plan out what you’re going to do beforehand. Layout the appropriate gear, your water bottle and protein shake so that they are waiting for you when you are ready to exercise.
Schedule in and treat your workouts, just as you would a work meeting. By writing it down or putting it in your phone, you are actively prioritising exercise. Plus, it’ll be harder to make excuses like being too tired or not having enough time.
Like brushing your teeth, exercise can be something you do every day without thinking about it if you make it a habit, according to some personal trainers. They suggest starting out small with very short and easy exercise sessions, so you have no excuses not to do them. As the habit becomes established, you can build on it.
Plenty of fitness trainers and gyms are streaming their classes on Zoom, Skype and social media. By working out with others online, you might be less likely to give up halfway through or bail altogether. Some people say it also helps keep you accountable.
If you’ve had a long day and don’t end up exercising, remember you’re only human. Instead of feeling guilty, hating yourself or deciding you will never be able to get fit, forgive and congratulate yourself on what you did achieve.
Want more fitness tips and workouts to go with it? Download the BodyKey app (version 2.0) from the Google Play Store or iOS for FREE today.
