8 Tips to Make Working Out a Habit (Instead of a Chore)
When you’re new to an exercise routine, everything feels like a chore. You’re sore after every workout, and you don’t see any results in the mirror or on the scale at first. Before long, the only thing that keeps you going is willpower, which isn’t sustainable in the long term and usually leaves you feeling guilty when your motivation wanes. To get yourself into the habit of working out regularly, be more effective with your workouts, and keep up your motivation so you feel good about working out, check out these 8 tips to make working out a habit.
1) Plan for Success
1. Set realistic goals- If you’re new to working out, don’t try to do too much too soon. Set small, achievable goals that you can gradually build on over time.
2. Find an activity you enjoy- Choose an activity that you can see yourself sticking with long-term. If you hate running, there’s no point in forcing yourself to do it just because it’s good for you.
3. Set a regular schedule- Find a time that works for you and make it a priority in your day-to-day life. Whether it’s first thing in the morning or after work, put it in your calendar and treat it like any other important appointment.
4. Mix things up- Variety is key to avoiding workout boredom.
5. Find an accountability partner- This can be someone who will exercise with you, or simply hold you accountable for your workouts by checking in with you regularly. It could even be your best friend or family member if they are willing to support you and keep you motivated.
2) Focus On Form
Good form is the key to any workout, whether you’re trying to improve your cardiovascular endurance or working on toning your muscles. Proper form will help you see results faster and prevent injuries.
1. Start small and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.
2. Find an activity that you enjoy and look forward to doing.
3. Set realistic goals for yourself and track your progress.
4. Make a commitment to yourself and set aside time each day or week for your workout.
5. Find a workout buddy or join a fitness class to stay motivated.
6. Mix things up so you don’t get bored with your routine.
7. Reward yourself for sticking to your workout plan!
3) Listen To Music
Music can be a powerful motivator when it comes to working out. It can help you get in the zone, push through tough sets, and make the time fly by. Plus, it can make working out feel more like fun than a chore. So crank up the tunes next time you hit the gym! The right playlist will do wonders for your mood, energy level, and performance. Here are some suggestions: The Best Workout Songs on Spotify According to Science New Year’s Resolution Playlist on Spotify
Mellow Instrumental Workout Songs on Spotify
The Best Workout Songs on Spotify According to Science by GQ: These tracks will not only get you pumped, but they’ll also help you power through any tough personal record or plateau. The Most Addictive Workout Songs on Spotify – TIME: These songs are engineered for sweat sessions. They’re short, high-energy and require few distractions. Use them in training or as playlists during workouts for maximum effect.
4) Keep Track of Progress
One of the best ways to make working out a habit is to find someone else to do it with you. Having an accountability partner will help you stay on track and motivated. Plus, it’s more fun to exercise with someone else!
1. Set a regular time for your workouts and put it in your calendar.
2. Start small and gradually increase the frequency and intensity of your workouts.
3. Find an activity that you enjoy and look forward to doing.
4. Set realistic goals that you can achieve.
5. reward yourself for sticking to your workout routine.
6. find someone who shares your fitness goals to work out with you.
7. Make working out a priority and stick with it!
5) Exercise With Someone Else
1.Working out with a friend or group can make exercise more enjoyable and motivating. Having someone to hold you accountable can also help you stick to your workout routine.
2. Find an Exercise Routine You Enjoy (four sentences):
If you hate running, there’s no need to force yourself to do it every day. Instead, find an exercise routine that you actually enjoy and look forward to doing. Whether it’s biking, hiking, dancing, or lifting weights, find something that makes you happy and stick with it.
3. Schedule Your Workouts Set aside time in your calendar for working out at least four times per week so you know when to plan around them. For example, if Tuesday evenings are the only time you have available for working out, then block off that evening on your calendar each week as Exercise Night. Write in what type of workout routine you’ll be doing at the top of the time slot so you know exactly what to expect when the time comes.
6) Workout in the Morning
The key to making working out a habit is to find a way to enjoy it. And one way to do that is by rewarding yourself afterward. For example, you could treat yourself to a healthy smoothie or buy yourself a new workout outfit. Whatever it is, make sure it’s something you’ll look forward to.
7) Set Reminders
To make exercising a habit, it is best to set yourself reminders. This could take the form of an alarm in your phone, a note on your mirror, or even writing it down in your day planner. Make sure you pick a method that works for you and keeps you on track. You should also take your lifestyle into consideration. If you cannot exercise during your lunch break, you should exercise before you go to bed.
8) Reward Yourself Afterward
1. Allow yourself to enjoy a post-workout reward that you genuinely look forward to.
2. Keep it healthy, so you don’t offset all your hard work!
3. Make it something you can look forward to so you stay motivated.
4. Examples of good rewards could be a delicious smoothie, new workout clothes, or taking some time for yourself to relax in a sauna or bath.
5. Whatever it is, make sure it’s something you will really enjoy and look forward to so you stay on track with your goals.
6. A little motivation can go a long way when trying to make working out a habit!