5 Tips for Making Exercise a Habit

I am not an exercise expert by any means. But after a year and four months of exercising six days a week, I think I can speak on the subject of making exercise a habit.

Experts say that is takes twenty-one days to make a new habit. So, if you want consistent exercise to be your new habit, here are a few tips.


1. Make an exercise schedule. What type of exercise and at what time of day? Then write it on your calendar! If you add to your schedule like a doctor's appointment or a hair cut, you will be more likely to stick to it!

2. Have all your workout clothes and equipment ready. Since I exercise first thing in the morning, I make sure my workout clothes are laid out the night before so it takes minimal effort to put them on. Sleep in your workout bra if necessary!

3. Share your exercise goal with someone. It can be your spouse, a friend, or on a social network. Sharing will help you stay accountable.

4. Set a reward for yourself. Whether your goal is weight loss or to get ready for swimsuit season, set a reward when you achieve that goal. For weight loss, I reward myself (a non-food reward!) for every ten pounds I lose.

5. Track your progress. Use can use pen and paper or an online resource. It will be a great motivator to look back over four or six weeks of exercise and see that you are improving. Track pace per mile, number of repetitions, etc.


Any other tips to share?

Good luck making exercise a habit!