I used to be a fitness buff. I exercised at least six days a week for an hour a day. Over the years the demands on my time meant I didn’t have time to commit to a daily hour of exercise; the kids managed to hurt themselves, someone needed something done “that minute” or an errand needed to be ran. I got out of the habit and realized I needed some serious motivation to help me get back in shape. I’ve researched and am sharing the best tips to ease into shape.
1. Start Small. If an hour is too much (and most of us have a hard time finding that extra hour) begin by committing to small steps. Can you take the stairs at work instead of the elevator? Can you park your car at the end of the parking lot when you go to the store and walk? Can you stand up longer and sit down less?
2. Commit to fifteen minutes a day. After you have begun the transition to a more active lifestyle, try to work in fifteen minutes of exercise a day, even if it is just a brisk walk around the block. It will get your heart rate pumping and (hopefully) your metabolism flowing. If you are out of shape, begin with a leisurely stroll and try to work up to a faster pace.
3. Find an exercise you enjoy. This one is difficult for me. I enjoy the brisk walk when the weather is “just right.” Unfortunately, living in the South, it’s too cold for me in the winter and too hot and humid in the summer. I have solved the problem by adjusting my schedule to walk late in the evenings during the summer and dragging out the exercise bike in the winter. Experiment until you find an exercise or sport you enjoy. You’ll be much more likely to stick to it if you are having fun.
4. Find a partner. I have found that I stick to a routine better if I have a partner. They are able to motivate me on days I do not feel like walking or tell me, “Yes, you have time to take a break for exercise.”
5. Listen to music. Since I rarely have anyone who can go on the brisk walks with me, I wasn’t as committed to them because I got bored. I found that when I listened to music I could sing along as I walked (without embarrassing my kids since they were not there) and the time passed much faster.
my husband would love these headphones for sure!
These are really great tips. I’m trying to start back up again – and I’m going to be partnering with my teen girls so maybe that will help.
Great tips although I hate working out.
Music always gets me going! And it really is more fun with someone to workout with. They are motivating, and you seem to get more done with a partner
As someone who has PCOS, I struggle with weight. The fact that all the exercise and dieting does nothing for my body is very disappointing. The one thing I do enjoy while working out is listening/watching music. It helps to keep up with my workout rather than give up.
so true – i really need to do some more. i was doing well and then suddenly bam! gained back 7 lbs after 2 weeks of laziness. music does help!
I would love these for my daily walk on the treadmill. I try to do at least 30 minutes a day. However, ti’s time to step my game up and increase my time.
I’m twice the woman my husband married and I have had many health issues, but recently I decided enough was enough and I am on my way to better health. I like you tips and agree.
I like to workout, but I have gotten out of my routine. I am struggling to get myself back into it. I definitely have to listen to music or workout on a machine with a tv, so I don’t get bored.
You gave some great tips that will help a lot of people stick with their goals. I like the music tip most of all.
I agree with your tips especially the music i only ever can concentrate on anything when i am listening to music lol.
I swear I’m so bad at this. Everytime I start working out I lose motivation so easily like after a month or so. I think doing it in group will be much better.
Yes! Music! It makes all the difference for me. And it has to be LOUD!
I really need to get back into it as well. I’m in physical therapy right now with my back but a little exercise never hurt anyone.
Great tips! I always shoot for 30 minutes but it doesn’t have to be 30 continual minutes straight!
All are very good tips. I love the listening to music b/c it makes the time go back so fast.
I think it’s perfectly reasonable to carve out 15 minutes a day for a workout. Music is motivational for me to get moving, so sometimes even if I’m not in a workout, I’ll play it and it will kinda get me moving more.
These are some great tips for those of us that just don’t know where and how to start. It’s important to come up with a fitness plan that is unique to the individual’s needs.
I so need to do the commitment to 15 minutes a day and get rid of 8 years of pregnancy weight – I keep telling myself after the holidays!
Jaybird Headphones are pretty awesome!
Love these tips.. I was just brainstorming about getting myself motivated before the holidays kick in. Thanks for the heads up on the daily prizes! Whoo hoo!
Great tips! I really need to be more active!
Great points. I love listening to music when exercising and even doing housework!
These are great tips. My new office location has forced me to walk more and, even though it is an adjustment, I love it.
Great tips and I really think it is important to build up a buddy system for the long haul!
These headphones sound like they would be perfect for working out and more. I am not much of a workout person, but music seems to motivate me.
My Husband could sure use a new pair of headphones for his workouts! These are awesome.
Music does make a big difference for me. My problem is motivation. I wish I could start something and stick with it consistently. I seem to come up with excuses all too often.
I have treadmill now and walk while I am watching episodes of TV shows. I actually will walk 45 mins without realizing it!! So it has been a bout 2 miles when I do it. I need to get into a routine though.
Whenever I do work out, I do need some kind of music otherwise I get bored too easily! Thanks for sharing!
i have a hard time w headphones because they hurt my ears- the actual headphone, not the sound 🙁
I am going back to working out more. I need to make room for the holidays and extra eating. lol.
These are such great tips for anyone who is just getting back into exercise or for those like me with very little extra time!
Great tips to get more active. I know if there is someone to hold me accountable, like a workout buddy, I am usually more consistent with my workout routine. I would love to win a pair of those Jaybird headphones.
Great tips, Pam! Inspiring for the holidays, too, which is always my hardest time of year to find time for exercise.
Finding time to exercise is so very important… I know that when I dont get my exercise in for the day i am miserable!
Great tips. I need to get going on my activity and love these inspiring ideas.
Oh I agree, the time DOES pass a lot faster when there’s music going. Thanks for the review!
I used to work out just like that everyday, for at least 1 hr or 1.5, 6 days a week, not that I’ve given birth to my daughter, I am in that season of trying to get back into the game as well, I actually want to get back in to that mode again, Great post!
I just started my weight loss journey 2 weeks and a few days ago! I am down 5 1/2 pounds and I have a great support person that stays on my behind to make sure I work out and drink the right amount of water!
I agree that starting small helps a lot. So does having a partner!
I have been so out of it exercise wise! I know these tips, now to put them into motion.
I would love to start walking again and need a buddy to walk with. Music is a great idea to make exercise go smoother. Loved your tips.
Exercise is a huge help for me and I always work out to music!
These are great tips. I actually posted a similar list on my blog not that long ago, so I totally identify with what you are saying. Starting small is so important; I have given up at times out of frustration that I couldn’t run the amount of miles that I could in high school, but that’s a ridiculous mindset. It’s all about working back to that point instead of being depressed that you aren’t there currently.
I like to work out, but I get so bored that I just don’t do it like I should. I like having my yoga, pilates and other DVDs. That way it feels like I am working out with someone.
When I first started working out again, I started with walks to the park and did strength training on the play equipment while playing with my youngest. Starting small is so much easier than jumping right in. I always listen to music, but I am one that prefers to workout alone – it is my only alone time now that I run and I take full advantage of it! Good for you on getting back into it.
For me, music is key. It totally helps keep me motivated. That is why I like zumba so much – it’s great music and an awesome workout all in one.