If you start sweating nervously from just hearing the work ‘gym’, don’t worry because you are not alone. Yes, we know it’s tiring, time-consuming and terrifying – but if you want to maintain a healthy lifestyle, you need to fit in some regular exercise. The key is to find the right exercise for you.
Just adding 30 minutes of physical activity to your weekly schedule can have incredible effects on your mental and emotional health. Exercising moderately, five times a week is one of the best things you can do for your body and mind. If that still seems like an intimidating amount of time to spend exercising, don’t lose hope! Even just a little physical activity is better than none at all.
Put a few of these tips into action each week and it will help you on your way to a healthier lifestyle!
1
Make the time
Start gradually. Slowly build up to at least 30 minutes of activity on most days of the week. Try to exercise at the same time of day, so it becomes a consistent part of your lifestyle. Your body will come to expect the workout and mentally look forward to that “me time”.
2
Know your limits
Look for opportunities to be more active during the day. Take the stairs instead of the escalator or take 15 minute break while watching TV to skip or go for a walk. Don’t exercise too forcefully right after meals, when it’s very hot or humid, or when you just don’t feel up to it. Hydrate regularly and keep a reasonable pace, you know your body!
3
Enjoy your workout
Choose activities that are fun, you don’t want exercise to feel like a chore. Add variety so that things never seem tedious or routine. Ask family and friends to join you – you may be more likely to stick with it if you have company. Thing of your workout as your time to relax and get rid of stress.
4
Track and celebrate your achievement
Make a note of your activities in a logbook. Write down the period of time of your activity and how you feel after each workout. Motivate yourself at special milestones with rewards, like a spa day or a gift to yourself.
Feeling like you’re stuck in a rut? Here are 3 training trends to spice up your routine.
