Hi there, Nurse Lauren here with your Motivation Monday tips! Anyone out there finding it hard to create an exercise routine AND stick with it? Here are four quick tips to get you started!
- Find a friend who you can work out with who will help keep you accountable. Instead of drinks or dinner – suggest a walk, hike, or exercise class. You’ve just turned your social calendar into exercise. You are less likely to cancel (or just not show up) when you are meeting someone. This can also work for signing up ahead of time online or on an app to reserve a spot in a class. If you reserve the bike – you better show up to spin class!
- Do not overdo it in the first week. You’ve bought new exercise outfits, your mind is in the right place and you are ready to commit to this! Then, you go to the gym and lift too many weights, or you run too fast or too long … now you are hurt or too sore to continue. Signing up for a class with a start and end time is a good way to begin. You know the time expectations – just listen to your body and don’t overdo it if some of the moves are too advanced. If you stick with the class you will eventually get there.
- Incorporate another form of entertainment that you enjoy and will help you pass the time. Using the elliptical? Watch an episode from one of your favorite TV shows. Doing aerobics or using weight machines? Play your favorite music that you know will keep you moving. Walking or running on the tread mill? Your hands are free – read a chapter in a book!
- Create a reward (not food!) for yourself if you stick to your routine for a certain number of weeks. Maybe a new pair of sneakers and some cute workout clothes. Have it relate to your workout routine.
This is Nurse Lauren, contributor of NursesNOW, signing off with your Motivation Monday tips. Remember that regular exercise in addition to a healthy diet are key to keeping your heart healthy. Now go out there and create the plan that’s going to work for you!
