Tips for Successful Exercise

Image via The Wall Street Journal

I get it. Exercising can be very difficult sometimes, for any number of reasons. It took me a long time to prioritize my health by working out regularly, and I’ve tried so many things to find a routine I like. Here are some tips to help you find what works best for you.

  1. Remember that just because it works for someone else, that doesn’t mean it will for you. It’s easy to see those “30-day ab” challenges and get frustrated when you try them and don’t see the promised results. However, you have to remember that everyone is different, in both mindset and body type. Sometimes, it just won’t work for you, physically, and that’s fine. Keep experimenting until you find what works.
  2. Mindset is as important as intensity. If you just can’t force yourself to do HIIT or run a few miles every day, find something you actually look forward to doing and vary your workouts. That can be dancing, yoga (tip: watch TV while doing it and the time flies by), walking your dog, swimming, or some other unconventional form of exercise. If you enjoy it, it will be more sustainable and successful.
  3. Allow yourself a break every so often. I am guilty of punishing myself if I skip a few workouts, so I always have to remind myself that it’s okay. A few days won’t ruin anything. Take care of yourself so you don’t get hurt.

Don’t give up! Exercise is hard, but you should be proud of yourself for every step you take. You’re already on the right track by reading this article. Start simply and work up to the higher intensity workouts. You’ve got this!