Part 5: Be Physically Active

Create a consistent routine for yourself. Reduce the number of excuses you can make. Tips for creating an exercise habit:

•  Seize your moment. Be aware of when your motivation to exercise is high. You may prefer mornings over evenings. Or, the opposite. Plan to exercise when you are more likely to be physically and mentally on board with it.

•  Get ready ahead of time. Pack a bag with clothes, shoes, deodorant, hair ties, a water bottle, a small towel, and other supplies you’ll need. When exercise comes up on your calendar, all you have to do is grab the bag.

•  Get ready for round 2 ahead of time. Have several days’ worth of workout clothes clean and ready to go. Store workout clothes together so it is easy to re-fill your gym bag. Make it easier to repeat your habit.

•  Commit to repeating your routine. Join a recreational sports team, sign up for a class, or pay for a personal training package. Even if you are not feeling up to it one day, having it on the schedule may get you there.

•  Be accountable to someone. Commit to meeting a friend for exercise at a certain time. Get a workout buddy and swap shoes. If you don’t show up, they won’t be able to work out either! Or, commit to logging your workout on social media or with a friend.

•  Be patient. It may take time to find an activity you like. It may take even longer to feel like it is a normal part of your day to exercise. Keep going. You’ll get there!