I don’t know about you, but getting into the habit of working out daily is a hard task. There always seems to be some type of task or chore that conflicts with your workout time. Not only that, but finding the motivation to workout everyday is a challenge mentally and physically. If you struggle with some of the same issues, then this blog is perfect for you! Today, I will be discussing how to make exercise a daily ritual with just a few tips and tricks.

Falling in Love with Exercise:

Set an Alarm
● Whether this is an alarm on your phone, a text to yourself, or a mark on your calendar, set a specific time for your workout! By having a specific time designated to working out, this removes any conflicts from getting in the way of your workout. Not only that, but it forces you to commit. Look at it this way, if you made plans with your friend at 2:00pm you wouldn’t want to bail on those plans. Same goes with a workout time. If you planned to workout at 2:00pm it is harder to change/cancel these plans.

Start off Small
● If you are new to this whole workout thing, the important thing to remember is to start off slow. Take it day by day. I recommend completing around a 15-25 minute workout from the start. If you jump right into an hour to hour and a half workout from the beginning you will most likely get burnt out. So, go for a 20 minute run or complete a 15 minute HIIT workout. Whatever you feel most comfortable doing.

Make it Enjoyable
● Let’s make it simple. If you like to run, run. If you like to do yoga, do yoga. If you like to lift weights, lift weights. Make your workout your own. If you do not like to do cardio exercise then do something else. The good thing about exercise is that there are so many different ways to do it. There is no right and wrong. Find something that you love and do that. Personally I like to go on either the treadmill or elliptical for 30 minutes to an hour a day. I find that this is my time that I can get a good workout in while also catching
up on my shows that I like to watch on my phone.

Mix it Up
● As mentioned before, the nice thing about exercise is that there are so many different ways to get a good workout in. With that being said, it is so important that you mix up your routine. If you are doing the same workout over and over for months you are most likely going to get sick of it. To avoid burnout, change it up. Instead of cycling go for a run! Instead of lifting dumbbells try out the machines! Another great option we have right
here on the UW-Whitewater campus is group fitness classes. This is a great way to have a ton of workout buddies and feel united. This also follows the “have a designated time” tip!

Stay Consistent
● When trying to get into the habit of working out consistency is key! It is common to want to take a day off. However, when first starting off it is important to exercise every day. This does not mean you have to go all out with a workout every day, but it is important to get the blood flowing. If you do miss a day, shake it off. Nobody is perfect. It is important to stay positive and do not beat yourself up about missing a day. Just workout the next
day.

Those are all of the tips I have in regards to exercise and working out. I hope this helped in any way if you are new to the gym, having a hard time staying consistent, or just feeling in a rut recently. Remember to stay positive throughout this process. Progress is not immediate; it takes
time.

Do not get discouraged.

Cora Shircel