Doctors tell us that we need
at least 2.5 hours of moderate exercise per week to maintain healthy minds and
bodies. How do we make that happen, especially when we have busy schedules? It
can be difficult, but the results will be worth it. Here are 7 ways to find the
right workout for you.
1. Decide on your goals.
Be
honest with yourself about what you would like to achieve with a workout plan
and be realistic to start. It’s healthy to dream big, but also make some
incremental goals so you can see your progress as you achieve each milestone. Goals
that are measurable and within your control such as exercising for 30 minutes 5
days per week for a certain number of weeks will help you see yourself as
successful and want to continue.
2. Make a commitment to your plan.
Sometimes the hardest part about maintaining a workout plan is our
commitment to other people. If you tell yourself your exercise time is
non-negotiable and make that clear to your family and friends, it will help you
hold that boundary. If someone wants to spend time with you during your workout
time, invite them to exercise too.
3. Build the habit.
Experts
have different opinions about how long it takes to build a habit but creating
a routine of exercise is more important at the beginning than the rigor of
the exercise. If you’re a new exerciser, it can be easy to discourage yourself
by going too hard and making yourself sore. Start by carving out the time for
exercise when you can and doing mild to moderate exercises until your routine
is firmly established and you find the time that works best for you. If after
work is too hectic, try waking up 30 minutes early. Morning exercise has the
extra benefits of boosting your metabolism longer and potentially improving
your mood for work.
4. Find a support system.
Having a workout buddy or even just an encourager can do wonders for your
workout regimen. If you don’t have someone who can commit to exercising when
you do, find yourself an accountability partner who you check in with
frequently. There are also many online communities you can join.
5. Consult an expert.
Once
you’ve established your routine and found exercises you like, you can start
building towards your fitness goals. It can make a big difference to your
success to consult a personal trainer or coach who can help you build a plan
that will yield the results you’re looking for.
6. Incorporate movement throughout your day.
If you are sedentary all day, it will be harder to make
yourself exercise outside of work. Prioritizing movement throughout the day can
help improve your fitness and your motivation to continue exercising. Take the
stairs rather than the elevator, park your car far from the door, volunteer to
deliver papers to the office down the hall, whatever it takes to get your blood
pumping.
7. Do what you enjoy.
At the
end of the day, you will not maintain a routine if you do not like the activity.
Just because all of your friends are suddenly running half-marathons, that does
not mean you need to run. If you prefer Zumba, do that. If you’d rather bike,
go for it. Choosing an exercise you like is the best motivator to continue
exercising.
Once you have determined to exercise and made your commitment to yourself, remember that healthy eating is a necessary part of exercise recovery. Superberries Aroniaberry Products contain antioxidants that reduce inflammation and flavonoids that increase blood flow to help your muscles repair themselves after a workout. They also contain complex carbohydrates to give your body the energy it needs. Superberries Frozen Aroniaberries and Aroniaberry Concentrate are so versatile that it’s easy to include them in your meals every day. Superberries Gummy Chews are made from Organic Aroniaberry Concentrate and are a great snack for after your workout.
