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10 Tips To Stay Committed & Consistent
Dianne Villano
Most studies show
that by now nearly 66% of those who started a fitness program
at the beginning of the year have quit or will do so and less
than one third of those who begin a fitness program will still
be exercising by the end of their first year. If you are determined
to make THIS the last time you resolve to lose weight - read
on ...
The following are 10 simple tips to get you started in making
the transition from fitness drop - out to a person who will
get fit, feel fabulous, never have to diet again and have
fun in the process.
Don't work out too hard, too fast; you will end up sore and
uninspired. Better to work out 2-3 days a week for life than
to work out 6-7 days a week for a couple of weeks, every now
and again. Consistency is key.
Schedule your workouts on your calendar as if they were any
other important appointment. This way, you will be able to
balance your exercise program with family, work and social
activities. Again, you will be more successful if you fit
fitness into your current lifestyle. A little is always better
than NONE.
If possible, workout in the morning. You will get it done,
feel energized all day and will avoid "life" getting in the
way of achieving your fitness goals.
Stay off the scales. As you get fit, lose fat and gain muscle,
you will actually drop inches and dress sizes and not move
the scales all that much.
Choose a role model. Ask an instructor or fitness professional
for suggestions and advice on how you can most effectively
reach your goals. There are also a variety of other resources
on health and fitness available.
Keep a fitness journal. Chart your progress and accomplishments.
Give yourself a little leeway - if you miss a workout or an
entire week, get back on track as quickly as possible. Setbacks
and challenges are normal. The quicker you get back on track,
the quicker you will reach your goals. Remember - fitness
is not about being perfect, but about a series of healthy
choices that you make consistently. It is not an all or nothing
proposition.
Evaluate your Progress every 6 - 8 weeks and increase the
intensity of your workouts to stay challenged and inspired.
Feel like skipping a workout? Get yourself to do something
for at least 10 - 15 minutes. Most likely, once you start
you will complete your entire planned workout. (If not, don't
fret, 15 minutes is better than nothing.)
Bored? Unfocused? Change your routine a bit. Add a Yoga, Aerobics
or Pilates class. If you don't care to join a gym, there are
many wonderful classes at the local rec centers. Try a new
exercise video or machine. Or, try an out door activity such
as bicycling or a beach walk.
Copyright © Custom Bodies, Inc. 2003
Dianne Villano, President of Custom Bodies, is a personal
fitness instructor certified through the National Academy
of Sports Medicine with over 16 years of experience. Custom
Bodies has been serving the bay area since 1996 with weight
loss & fitness programs for every fitness level. For more
articles or free fitness tools visit www.mypersonalfitnesscoach.com
Article Source: www.add-article.com
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