The weather is getting colder, gyms are closed, and COVID-19 restrictions are in full effect. It may be tempting to want to hibernate and forget about doing any physical activity when you’re stuck inside, but exercise is important to physical and mental health. Exercise:
- Reduces the risk of heart disease
- Helps maintain a healthy weight
- Improves mental health
- Helps maintain cognitive health
Below we offer some tips to help you get fit at home, without the need for a gym. All it takes is a little dedication and discipline.
Dedicate a Space in Your House for Exercise
Dedicating a space in your house just for exercise can help you reduce distractions and prepare mentally for your workout. This area can have a mat, any equipment that you’ll use for your workouts, and an inspirational poster or your favorite inspirational quote.
Start Slow and Keep Promises to Yourself
If you’re just starting to add physical activity to your daily routine, we recommend that you start slow. It’s difficult to change your life from one day to the other. Starting slow can be doing a 15-minute workout, instead of an hour. Over time, you can add intensity to your workout routine.
Never Miss Two Days in a Row
Everyone encounters setbacks when starting a new routine or working towards an accomplishment. It’s ok to miss a day here and there. If you miss a day, don’t be hard on yourself. You’re still on track to forming your new life-changing habit. Show some compassion to yourself, and prepare yourself to show up for yourself the next day.
Work Out at the Same Time Every Day
It can be tempting to sleep in just a bit longer or push your workout to the afternoon instead of the morning. But not sticking to a structured routine can make it more difficult to accomplish your workout goals. Prioritize getting to your workout area at the same time every day.
Make a Special Workout Playlist
Motivate yourself with music. Create the perfect workout playlist by adding songs you love and that will keep you moving through your workout. High tempo and high-intensity music are proven to help motivate people and improve exercise performance.
Find a Structured Program
It can feel overwhelming to incorporate working out into your daily routine, especially if you don’t know where to start or what exercises to do. To help you structure your routine, consider using free videos on YouTube or paying for a structured program. Some companies, like Nike and Planet Fitness offer some free beginner workout classes.
Track Your Progress
Use an app or a journal to write down the days that you accomplished your goal (e.g working out for 20 minutes or completing the next workout in a program). This way, you can keep track of how well you kept to your fitness goals.
Start Now
Don’t wait until the new year to start incorporating a healthy habit into your life. There will always be a reason to wait until tomorrow. Pick a date to start your new routine, tell your friends and family, and ask them to help keep you accountable.