Incorporating fitness into your everyday routine
Fitness is a broad term meaning something different for everyone, and you don’t have to be a marathon runner to be in good health. If you remain active and maintain healthy daily habits, you are likely doing enough. When you incorporate fitness into your everyday routine, along with eating well and taking care of your health, it becomes a lifestyle and, hopefully, a way of living that you realise is essential to maintain.
Start by making everyday decisions to improve and maintain fitness. Even if they seem small or insignificant, all these small choices add up and eventually become your unthinkable routine. It is best to set realistic goals and be patient with yourself, knowing that it will not become routine overnight. It takes hard work, but if you really commit to yourself, you realise it is worth it.
You can start by incorporating more movement into your day. The next time there is a line at the elevator, decide to take the stairs. If you have a long work call, could you take a walk while you're on it? If you are meeting up with a friend, consider doing something active instead of just sitting —take your coffee for a walk! Keep track of how much time you spend sitting throughout your day and try to stand or move around more frequently.
You will always make time for something important to you. Schedule your workouts in advance and commit to them as if they were a work meeting-- only cancelling if you really must. Try to exercise with a friend or family member and hold each other accountable for showing up. You must enjoy the workout; otherwise, you will create excuses not to commit. Take the time to try different types of workouts and find what you want most; there is something for everyone.
Now, with the pandemic, there are numerous at-home workout options. You don’t need to buy fancy equipment or machines; multiple body-weight exercise programs only need a small amount of cleared space. These workouts are either for a small price or for free, and you can access them at any time. Find thirty minutes in your day to work out, whether it's cutting into TV time or social media time; there is no excuse. Everyone can find these 30 minutes in their day.
Once you commit to exercising regularly, you will start to feel (and see) the benefits. When you realise that your hard work is paying off, it will motivate you to continue. It can be addictive! The endorphins produced during a workout can improve your mood and energy, which can positively impact your entire day and, ultimately, your life.