Did you know that we’re doing better at exercising three or more days per week for at least 30 minutes? According to the CDC, in 2013 we were at 20.6 percent and now we’re at 49.2 percent.
I was an athlete in high school but for many years afterwards, I was physically inactive. Although I tried sporadic diets and exercised half-heartedly, I was never successful in sticking to a long-term exercise routine. Until recently. My biggest challenge now is keeping my routine fun.
Getting a routine exercise habit started is the hardest part. However, as with any long-term goal, over time the thrill goes and things begin to feel mundane and static. Many of us develop mental and physical staleness with our exercise routine. It’s important to take steps to unlock the boredom, break up the monotony and make exercise fun again. You’re more likely to stick to it if you find it enjoyable.
Here are some tips:
- Find a partner or join a group. According to research, people who exercise with their spouse, friends, or coworkers enjoy it more. This provides motivation and creates companionship and accountability. Although joining a group may be a new challenge if you enjoy exercising in solitude with your headphone or the sounds of nature, a group can make exercise fun again through competition and shared experience. Another option is alternating group exercise sessions with solo routines.
- Change your routine. Many of us who exercise regularly rely on a predictable schedule so changing may not be an easy task. Making small changes to your routine may restore fun in your exercise program. These changes may not feel natural at first, but give yourself and the changes time.
- Find a new challenge or goal. New is exciting. Each new goal will definitely restore the fun and enjoyment in your exercise routine. New challenges can make you more intentional in your exercise program as you focus on accomplishing your goal.
- Exercise for a greater cause. There are several organizations and foundations that use exercise to create awareness and increase funding and support for their cause. You will find new motivation and enjoyment when you change your perspective and begin to focus on helping to a difference in the lives of others. Find a cause that personally motivates you.
Most days my exercise routine resembles the instruction on a shampoo bottle: Wash. Rinse. Repeat. But I try to change my routine frequently to help me avoid boredom and prevent the dreaded fitness plateau. I made two changes recently, listening to reggae music and alternating my solo routine with group workout and I’m having fun and feeling more motivated.
As we celebrate Healthy Aging this month, exercise is one of the pillars of longevity and the health benefits are many. With our busy lifestyles, finding time for exercise daily can be difficult but worth it! Also, remember that exercise can be accumulated throughout the day, so find little pockets of time to squeeze in physical activity. Find an activity that works for you, make it a priority and make it fun!
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To Your Success,
Althea
Althea A. McLeish Wilson, RN, MSN
Promoting inner health & outer beauty!
Helping you thrive, not just survive!!
PS. Inner Health & Outer Beauty Store: Health & Wellness with Althea♦
PPS. Did You Find This Helpful? If so, please feel free to share!! Leave a comment or contact me at althea@altheamcleish.com.
