As the year nears to an end, many of us are coming up with ways to become our best selves in 2022. For most of us, this includes starting, or re-starting, our exercise routine. Now, I’m sure we can all agree, starting is the easy part – buying cute new gym shorts, running shoes, or headphones. But sticking to the routine is the tough part.
Here are some tips on how to stick to your exercise routine throughout 2022!
Make it personal!
You don’t HAVE to do the same workout routine that your fitness enthusiast colleague is doing. Don’t enjoy the bikini body routine that everyone on the web is recommending? Then skip it! Remember to tailor your exercise program according to what YOU like. Think about your lifestyle, time constraints, finances and physical condition, and tailor your exercise routine according to that.
Make it fit!
For most of us, time constraints are a huge problem when it comes to exercising. Sit down and look at your day – then work in a half an hour of exercise. Don’t make this something that is optional, but rather something that is necessary to do, like brushing your teeth, or eating dinner. If this means waking up half an hour earlier in the morning, trust me, you’ll feel better for it.
Set Some goals!
Set some short-term and long-term goals for yourself. Think about what you want to achieve with this exercise routine. Want to lose 5kgs – great, that’s a goal. Want to be confident and comfortable in your bikini this summer – great, goal! Make the goal specific and realistic, and this will give you the motivation to carry on with the routine.
Chart your progress!
There is nothing better than having actual proof that you are achieving something. Once you’ve set your goal, start measuring your performance. Record the amount of steps you took each day in a planner, tick off everyday that you’ve successfully done your exercise routine on a chart stuck on your refrigerator. Find a way to track your progress to prove to yourself that you are actually sticking to the plan!
Reward your efforts!
Achieving short and long term exercise goals is a cause for celebration! Reward yourself after you have lost that 1st kg, walked that first 10 000 steps, or completed that first month without skipping a session.
