We all know how important exercise is for our overall health. However, many people, perhaps including you and me, claim they are “too busy” to exercise due to work or other personal reasons. After all, time is of the essence, and so is money for paying bills.
On the other hand, research has found that some chronic diseases can be avoidable if only we dedicated some time to exercise aside from eating a healthy diet. Meanwhile, a separate study published in the American Journal of Public Health revealed that simply telling others how important exercise cannot be motivating enough for them. As a result, a number of people not only in the US but also around the world are obese and led a sedentary lifestyle.
In other words, getting “motivation” from other people maybe not enough, and may even come across as nagging. Instead, that desire and motivation should come from you to achieve your fitness goals. Moreover, it is important to shun any distractions that hinder you from having a healthier body.
Okay, so that’s a handful now. It’s time to know these steps on how to stay focused on your fitness workout:
1. Set your goals
Rather, make specific short-term and long-term goals. For example, you don’t just want to lose weight. It would be better to “lose 20 pounds in a year.” That can be your short-term goal. If you want to have that biceps like Arnold Schwarzenegger’s or a svelte body like those Victoria’s Secret models, that can be your long-term goal.
2. Be realistic
Make sure to set realistic time frames so you can monitor your progress in real time. Losing 10 pounds in 3 days is near-impossible. Likewise, choose workout routines where it is more accessible. For example, you can try swimming if there’s a pool nearby, or go to that gym nearby and make the most out of your time and money there.
3. Think “fun”
If you think of exercise is a “chore”, it will most probably not motivate you to get going. Instead, try a workout routine that interests you, such as joining a Zumba, Yoga, or martial arts class. You can also invite friends to join you on your newly-discovered fitness routine. Even simple morning or evening walks, or biking around the neighborhood can be a fun way to get fit. The possibilities are endless!
4. Put your fitness progress into writing
Write your daily fitness progress and accompanying results in a journal, such as how long your workout was during that day and what particular routine you did. Seeing your progress can help motivate you to keep going until you reach your goal.
5. Never bring your work- or home-related problems while working out
Office issues or personal problems can affect the quality of your workout routine, so it’s best to leave those behind and stay focused on your regimen. You can also try working out first thing in the morning before you go to work so that you can focus your energy on it before everything else.
6. Prepare a “workout” playlist
For some reason, some songs ignite a fire in ourselves that gets us going. That is why you may notice many people wearing earphones while running or working out, and most gyms play nod-inducing sounds. Of course, it depends on your routine. Classic or relaxing sounds suit a Yoga class, while Eminem may be more appropriate for weight-lifting. It’s your choice.
7. Prepare a workout plan
So you now have your playlist, ticked which days are you going to work out, and brought along your other fitness arsenal. Then you walk into a gym, but you have no idea what routine to do for the day. As a result, you could waste precious time and be prone to distractions. If you’re in a gym, talk to the trainer and let him assist you with your routine. Or better yet, set which work out routine you’ll do for that particular day.
8. Celebrate your fitness achievements
You’ve worked hard to achieve your fitness, and it’s just right to reward yourself from time to time. Of course, don’t overdo it, or your hard work may end up in vain.
By following these tips, you can make sure that your dream to a healthier body and health will turn into reality.
Photo by Daniel Apodaca on Unsplash
