A Full Body Workout To Help You Stay Consistent With Exercise

Exercise is essential to a healthy, balanced lifestyle, so figuring out how to be consistent with activity and movement is crucial. Whether you are working on getting back into your usual routine or hoping to start a new one, we’ve got some ideas to help you make exercise a priority.

3 Expert Tips to Achieve Consistent Exercise Habits

Be both a goal-setter and a goal-getter.  Stay positive with your progress, and try to find at least one thing you’re thankful for every single day.  Remember that your exercise goals will become easier to attain over time.

Tip #1: Try Something New

Trying something new can help to form new habits and keep things exciting. Try setting your alarm and waking up just a half hour earlier every day to dedicate some time to stretching or moving your body.  Consider carving out even more time to try a new sport like tennis, pickleball, racquetball, squash, badminton, Pilates, HIIT, or indoor rowing.  You will likely have more active days when trying something new than when you stick to one activity. Plus, the change-up may keep you more interested. 

Tip #2: Find an Accountability Buddy

Consider working out with a friend or a couple of friends.  Having a workout buddy or two can not only be enjoyable, but it can help hold everyone accountable, too.  According to a Year in Sport Report from Strava Press, when their app users exercised in groups, they covered 21% more distance (i.e., running, biking, swimming) and worked out 10% longer.  Therefore, you may be more likely to work out harder and longer when someone else is with you.

Tip #3: Mark it in Your Calendar

Try writing your goals down in your weekly planner or iCal.  If something is on your calendar, you are more likely to make it happen.  Do you schedule time for appointments and meetings?  If so, consider your workout one of those important meetings.

7-Step Full Body Workout

Check out this quick workout for when you are short on time!  All you need are a set of weights. Suitable for beginner to moderate skill levels. 

1. Sumo Squats

Front rack the weights over your shoulders and stand with feet wider than hip-width distance apart

Just one weight is needed, racked over the shoulder and pressed overhead at the top of each lunge

Hands wider than shoulder width distance apart

Tuck elbows into your side and curl your biceps before thrusting arms overhead

Just one weight held with both hands behind your head, keeping elbows tucked in at ears

Lying on the floor, reach up towards the ceiling and touch hand to opposite foot, alternating sides