It’s hard to commit to something that takes time out of your usual routine. Kids need to get to school, you need to get to work, housework has to be done and then there are errands, social commitments and more. Your health is a priority, but it’s easy to forget that when you have a dozen things that all seem more pressing. Going for a walk in the evening or hitting the gym can take up hours you want for relaxing. So how do you make exercise part of every day?
It’s tempting to stay in bed for just a little longer, but did you know exercise actually helps you feel energized? Exercise enhances blood flow carrying oxygen and nutrients to your muscle tissue; this improves their ability to produce more energy. Even low-intensity exercise on a regular basis can help you feel more alert and energetic. If you exercise first thing in the morning, you’re not interrupting your routine nor do you have other commitments that could make you opt to handle those instead of your exercise.
One of the reasons exercise groups tend to be successful is the sense of commitment that goes along with it. You’ve agreed to join other people in doing this thing; if you absent yourself because you’re just not feeling it, it’ll be noticed. People will ask where you’ve been or be disappointed that you weren’t present. When you’ve made an arrangement with a friend, trainer or exercise group, you’re creating accountability to commit to the exercise, even if you’re having an off day.
Doing something that takes time and isn’t immediately rewarding requires willpower. One way to make that easier is to promise you a reward for going through with it. So set goals and work towards them. When you reach that goal—walking 3 miles a week, going to the gym 3 days a week, not missing an exercise session for a month—reward yourself with something you’ve really wanted. A new pair of walking shoes, new books, a massage session—anything that you don’t usually give yourself can be a good inspiration to make exercise part of every day.
