How many bad habits do I have? Let me count the ways. If I were to write an article about bad habits, we would be here for a while. Instead, let’s discuss how to make exercise a habit. The physical and mental benefits of breaking a sweat are well-documented, yet everywhere I look, I see overweight people.
Exercise is not a habit for many people, and it shows. I was one of those who didn’t prioritize exercise because it got in the way of other things. But it’s now a habit.
How did I get here?
Don’t worry, I’m not about to break into a Talking Heads song or take a trip down memory lane, but here you will learn the not-so-secret ways to make exercise a habit.
But What Are Habits?
A habit is a routine behavior that is repeated and tends to occur without conscious effort. You do it because it is an ingrained tendency in your brain.
Experts commonly classify habits into three groups.
The first group covers habits you don’t notice—they’re so ingrained they run on autopilot, such as tying shoelaces or brushing your teeth. The second group includes beneficial habits that require effort to establish, such as exercising, eating a balanced diet, or getting sufficient sleep.
There are also automatic bad habits, such as smoking, procrastinating, or biting your nails. These are the ones you try to eliminate, but they’re difficult to overcome because, like the first group, they’re ingrained.
However, none of that explains how to make exercise a habit. However, if you’re thinking, ‘You’re a trainer; shouldn’t you adore exercise and believe in it, doing it every waking moment of your day?’
No, I don’t. My favorite part of exercising is finishing and slugging down a protein shake, but that still doesn’t answer the question; however, this will.
It’s part of my job.
But here’s the thing about my mindset shift.
How many times have you gotten up and gone to work when every fiber of your being screams at you to stay in bed? Most Mondays, right? But you got up and went anyway because having a roof over your head and other necessities are essential, regardless of the way you feel.
That’s the way I feel about exercise, as it’s vital for a healthier and more enjoyable life. If that doesn’t work for you, I will explain other options below.
How To Make Exercise a Habit
If incorporating exercise into your daily routine, especially when you already have enough jobs, doesn’t appeal to you, consider one of the options below.
Hopefully, it will help make exercise a habit.
Start small: When I started lifting, all I did was bicep curls and bench presses. But showing up at the gym helped build the habit. The simple act of just showing up and doing a little is powerful.
Celebrate small wins: Whether you’ve walked for an extra 10 minutes or completed one more rep of an exercise you dislike, give yourself a pat on the back.
Having clear intentions: Setting a goal always helps. For example, if you want to lose weight to keep up with your kids and have more energy, that clarity can motivate you.
Creating a better environment: Make it easier for the habit to stick. For instance, if you want to go to the gym, pack your bag the night before and place it where you can see it when you wake up and start your day. If you want to achieve your high school weight or fit into a specific piece of clothing, having your goal visible helps.
Where are your cheerleaders? If you’re trying to lose weight, but your partner is still indulging in ice cream, do you think that makes losing weight easier or more difficult? Having people who support you during a period of change is very helpful.
Do something you hate the least: Engaging in a movement or activity you enjoy means it’s more likely you’ll stick with it.
Wrapping Up
Good habits require work, time, and dedication, but once established, the benefits they bring make it well worth it. Exercise is the ultimate habit you should adopt if you haven’t already.
It makes flextime fun.
Work With Me Online
Whether you’re just starting or you’re tired of piecing together random YouTube workouts, my online coaching will help you succeed with:
Customized workouts you can do at home
Mobility routines to reduce stiffness and move better
Expert guidance and progress tracking that fits your lifestyle
Real accountability
Click here to get started today.
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