It’s time. No more laying it off! No more excuses!
Yeah, we’re all a little lazy sometimes. Oh, the pain of just the thought that we have to get out of bed and hit the gym or run a K down the street! I’m tired just thinking about it. (To my assistant, “Where’s that Snickers bar?)
But, Summer is here, and we need to get it on. We need to get that body we always complain we never have. So, I’ll make it easy for you: Here are 5 simple steps to get you into the mood…
1. Exercise is good for you. No, really
I know you keep hearing that working out is healthy, but it really is. Not only does it get your heart pumping and being fitter keeps your body in good shape, but it also releases feel-good chemicals known as endorphins (note to assistant: if you exercise you’ll feel just as good as if you indulge in that Snickers bar!). If you’re feeling down, get some blood pumping with exercise and it’ll boost your mood.
2. Get inspired
I know it’s hard to get up and about, but you’ll feel such pride after a good workout that you’ll be happy to do it. It helps to keep your eye on that prize. Another idea to stay motivated is to involved a friend in the exercise, that way you have a fitness buddy who will keep you on track (excuse the pun). Finally, think of what goals you want to achieve with this new exercise plan: do you wanna tone up in time for bikini season or just get fitter? Write it down and keep reminding yourself of it.
3. Reward yourself
Don’t see exercise as a punishment – think of it as something great you do for yourself on a daily basis. So reward yourself with something not only to keep you motivated to stick with it, but to value yourself. Ok, that Snickers bar sounds good!
4. Find the fun
Exercise doesn’t have to always involve the gym. Why not find more fun ways to get active? Take a fast-paced walk round the neighbourhood, jump on your bicycle and cycle to the shops or dance to your favourite tunes. You won’t even realise you’re burning up the calories.
5. Don’t be too harsh on yourself
It’s easy to fall into the trap of beating yourself up with unrealistic expectations or diving headfirst into a hectic exercise regime only to lose the motivation after a week. Ease into it and take it a day at a time. It’s gonna be something you want to do forever, not just a week or two, so make it something cool, not a pressure-filled chore. Have a wicked workout!