Over the summer, I ditched the regular workout schedule that had worked so well for me during most of the year. I kept saying that I’d resume my regular routine in the fall. If keeping a routine isn’t easy, restarting one is even harder. Still, I stayed true to myself and got back in the gym again this week. If you’re having trouble restarting or find a new routine, here are a few tips.
1. Be prepared. You know how you tell your kids to get their backpacks ready the night before school? That same advice works for adults! Get the gym bag ready. Lay your workout clothes on a chair.
2. Ask a friend to join you. You wouldn’t dream of hitting “snooze” on the alarm clock if you had a friend waiting for you by the treadmills or in spinning class! Studies show people are more successful and committed to working out when they do it with a friend.
3. Reward yourself. Don’t reward yourself with a calorie-laden treat! Instead, buy a new workout top, a fancy water bottle or a cute headband! Even adding your favorite shampoos and lotions to use in the locker room makes a difference. When you look good, you feel good.
4. Don’t despair. So what if you missed a day or two. Get back on track next week! Studies show it takes weeks to form a habit.
Remind yourself how good you feel after working out. Keep at it, and soon you’ll find your new routine is simply a habit (and a good one, at that!).
Despite her best efforts at planning ahead, Western Reserve Racquet & Fitness Club Marketing Director Michele Kisthardt forgets something in her gym bag nearly every day.