Let’s set the scene.
It’s the 1st of January, and like every other year, your New Year’s resolution is to be more active. You get into fitness mode, but after a week or so, you’re unable to keep up the momentum.
But why does it always go wrong?
Exercise is often faced with a lot of resistance. We all want to be healthier, but it’s difficult to stick to a routine because let’s face it, exercise is hard.
However, it doesn’t have to be that difficult.
What many of us fail to understand is that exercise should be enjoyable. To create a habit, we must find what works for us. Whether it’s slow, intentional movement, or sweaty, heavy lifting, figuring out what you enjoy is key.
So, if you’re ready to finally stick to a fitness routine, we’ve got you covered.
How to get started with a new exercise habit
When it comes to making a habit out of exercise, the hardest part is getting started. We’re going to share some tips that’ll help you successfully embark on your fitness journey.
1. Set goals
The first step is figuring out what you want to achieve. If you have your goals laid out in front of you, you’ll be more likely to accomplish them.
2. Start slow
It’s important to go at your own pace. Start off slow, and when you get stronger, gradually make your workouts more challenging. Don’t push yourself too hard at the start, as you’ll burn out, which’ll prevent you from forming a long-term habit.
3. Enjoy yourself
If you enjoy working out, you’re more likely to achieve your goals. So, don’t force yourself to do things that don’t motivate you. If you hate intense cardio, go on brisk walks instead. If you love weights, stick to strength training. Create a positive relationship to exercise, as this will help you develop healthy habits.
4. Use Steppen to guide you
Whether you’re returning to fitness after a short hiatus or you’re a total beginner, it can be difficult to know where to start. Luckily, we’ve got you covered. Steppen has a range of pre-designed workouts that cater to everyone, no matter your fitness level. And if you’re more advanced, you can mix and match to create your own workouts.
Steppen is designed to make fitness a lifestyle choice, so we provide motivation and encouragement along the way too. Not only will you have on-demand workouts in the palm of your hands, you’ll also have a PT motivating you in your pocket.
How to maintain a workout routine
If you’re someone who struggles to stick to a routine, here are some tips to help you make an exercise habit.
1. Focus on showing up
The hardest part is showing up. Once you’ve rolled out your mat, put on your gear or left your house, you’re almost at the finish line. So, make it your goal to merely ‘show up’, as once you’ve taken the steps to get started, you’ll almost always complete your workout.
2. Schedule your workouts
To make an exercise habit, it’s important to incorporate it into your routine. Much like how eating and sleeping are non-negotiable parts of your daily life, you must set aside the time to work out. Whether this be first thing in the morning, or an hour after you finish work, schedule your workouts, as eventually, they’ll become an automatic part of your routine.
3. Change it up
Add variety to your workouts, as if you do the same thing every day, you’ll lose motivation. Changing things up keeps them exciting, so if you want to make a habit out of exercising, don’t be afraid to try something new.
4. Keep sight of your goals
Make sure you’re tracking your progress and referring back to your goals. This will keep you motivated, as you’ll be able to see how far you’ve come, pushing you to go further.
Using an app like Steppen helps you keep track of every workout you complete so that you can track your progress over time.
5. Remember to rest
Rest is important too, as it prevents you from burning out, so make sure you’re giving yourself enough time to recover.
6. Stay inspired
Following fitness creators is a great way to stay motivated. Steppen keeps you up to date with your favourite fitness creators so you can get your daily dose of inspiration.
Benefits of exercising
If you weren’t already motivated by now, here are some of the amazing benefits you’ll see if you stick to a regular workout routine:
- More self confidence
- Improved mental health
- Enhanced cognitive functioning
- Reduced risk of illness and disease
- Increased strength
- Enhanced ability to complete everyday tasks
Exercise looks different to everyone. Some people enjoy slow, mindful movements, whilst others prefer to sweat it out. Finding the right workouts for you and focusing on what you enjoy will help you develop a habit of exercise.
Exercise habits don’t start with New Year’s resolutions. The true key to success is creating a routine that’s perfect for you.
Ready to begin your fitness journey? Join Steppen tody.
