How many times have you started an exercise program only to stop? Have you ever wondered if there is a better way to approach the whole get active thing? Perhaps a different way to look at the mystery of movement? If you find yourself (or if you know someone) looking for the magic potion to being successful with physical activity, the following tips are intended to help start you off on the right track.
- Keep is simple.There is a tendency to over complicate exercise. Morning, evening or midday – which is best? Exercise before or after I eat? Stretch first? Stretch last? Aerobic or strength training? Hard or easy? Weights or machines? Whew! I am dizzy! When we overcomplicate a very simple matter, there is a tendency to forgo doing anything because it’s just too confusing. Just. Do. Something. End of story! When talking about behavior change, it doesn’t matter what you do. Just do something to begin the shift in behavior.
- Keep expectations realistic. If you find yourself wanting to look like some fancy celebrity, please stop. Why set yourself up for something that is not real? Don’t let the media manipulate you. Focus on what is right for you and steer your thoughts away from unrealistic expectations.
- Listen to your body. Your activity level must meet you where you are. Too many people do too much too soon, get injured or lose interest because it’s too hard. Eww. Who wants that? Be realistic about what you can do comfortably. When starting an exercise program, consistency is the key. Chose an activity that is comfortable for you. And don’t let some mad yelling trainer get in your face screaming “More! More!” It just doesn’t work that way (no matter what you see on TV).
- Have fun. If exercise isn’t your thing, I know this sounds easier than it actually is. But, on some level, if you aren’t enjoying it, you probably won’t continue with it. One exercise I have my clients do is to complete a physical activity likes/dislikes inventory. This helps them hone in on what, realistically, they can see themselves doing over the next three month period. If you are one of those people who simply don’t like to exercise, here is a bit of insight. Sometimes we have to talk ourselves into it. Or don’t think about how much you don’t like it. You will learn how to tolerate it, if nothing else. Kind of like brushing your teeth. I mean, really, who likes teeth brushing?
Becoming physically active is a staged process. As you gain insight to what is right for you, life will begin to shift and the magic will secretly appear in mysterious ways. Magic that you have worked for and deserve!
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