We are all fully aware of the benefits of exercise… But actually exercising is a whole other thing. 

I am writing this post with the intention of inspiring you to get up and move your body! 

 

Set SMART Goals:

S = Specific – make your goals specific and more effective planning.

M = Measurable – define what evidence will prove you’re making progress and reevaluate when possible.

A = Attainable – make sure you can reasonably accomplish your goal within a certain time frame. 

R = Relevant – your goals should align with your values and long term objectives.

T = Time based – set a realistic ambitious end date for task prioritization and motivation.

(For example: “My goal is to go on a brisk 2 mile walk 3 times a week by the end of this month.”)

 

Track Your Progress: 

Record all of the details of your exercise (type, reps, time, frequency, dates, etc.) in your calendar or journal. Seeing an increase in your overall physical activity levels makes you want to keep going.

 

Let Go of Guilt: 

I promise you that it is not the end of the world if you miss a workout. Do not let this be your excuse to give up on your long term goals. I suggest accepting your rest day and being gentle with yourself. Self compassion is key here so that you can move on and fully enjoy what you’re doing, resting or working out!

 

Focus Only On Yourself:

Avoid comparing yourself to others. Instead, you can admire them and be happy for them with where they are at. You can only control yourself and this is your journey to better health.

 

Choose Movement You Actually Enjoy:

This one is very important. I will use my preferences as an example, because I am sure someone can relate to this. I don’t like running because I find it boring, so I don’t go on runs. I rarely go on walks or exercise alone because I prefer doing it with a friend. What I do enjoy is going to fitness classes, so I teach fitness classes twice a week and I attend pilates classes twice a week, and I have a few friends that I’ve established as my walking buddies. I find that both the fitness classes and going on walks with friends holds me accountable to moving my body in ways that I actually enjoy. Because I work from home I always look forward to seeing people in person and associating exercise with social interactions. This doesn’t have to be the same for you, but my point is that you get to decide what works for you and what doesn’t.

 

Reward Yourself:

Celebrate yourself, always! Buy yourself a new outfit, treat yourself to a massage, or whatever it is that you want! You deserve it.

 

Was this helpful? Feel free to email me at alex@naturallynourished.ca or comment directly below 🙂