Do you dread exercise or do you find yourself making excuses in your mind to not exercise. Well would you believe that you could crave exercising more than your favorite desert. I am not just talking about the results of exercise, but having your mind and body crave the act of exercising by making fitness a lifelong habit.
This is no voodoo magic, and I am not going to hypnotize you. It is simple and it is the same way you have learned to crave anything else over time. You know that Incorporating fitness into your daily routine is the key to long-term success in achieving your goals. So all we need to do is create the healthy habits and making fitness a part of your daily life. This sounds simple but HOW? Simple follow this plan and build the habits in your life you want.
Start with Small Steps
Creating healthy habits starts with small, achievable steps. Begin by setting realistic goals and gradually increasing them over time. This approach allows you to build momentum and develop a consistent fitness routine without overwhelming yourself. Remember, it’s all about progress, not perfection!
Prioritize Your Time
We all lead busy lives, but finding time to prioritize your health is essential. Schedule your workouts as you would any other important appointment. Whether it’s waking up 30 minutes earlier, blocking off time during your lunch break, or finding opportunities to be active throughout the day, make your fitness a non-negotiable part of your routine.
Become Pavlov’s Dog Through Music
Have you ever heard of Pavlov’s dog? It’s a famous experiment where a dog was conditioned to salivate at the sound of a bell. Well, you can do something similar with music and your workouts. Just like the dog, you can train your brain to associate certain songs with exercise. This is one way I have made fitness a lifelong habit.
I have started my workout with the same fitness playlist for years. No mater how I feel as soon as the song comes on I want to start working out. So create your favorite workout playlist and become a creature of habit on purpose. If you want to know what my first song is, it is “Legendary” by Skillet. Skillet is the only band on my workout playlist. I like to keep it simple.
Oh you may think that I would like the songs less, because I have listen to them so often. Actually it is the opposite. Since now I have the habit of working out with these songs, I trigger even more good feelings when I hear them. So I have also trained myself to like my playlist more.
Make Movement a Priority to Make Fitness a Lifelong Habit
Don’t limit your fitness routine to the gym alone. Look for opportunities to move throughout your day. Take the stairs instead of the elevator, go for a brisk walk during your lunch break, or even try incorporating standing or walking meetings at work. Every little bit of movement adds up and contributes to a healthier, more active lifestyle.
Schedule Regular Activity Breaks
If you are sitting for prolonged periods throughout the day, this can negatively impact your health and hinder your fitness goals. Make sure you take regular acitvity breaks throughout the day to stretch, move, and get your blood flowing. Even a few minutes of low-intensity exercise can make a significant difference in your overall well-being.
Have a Fall Back Home Workout
If time or accessibility is an issue, don’t fret! Home workouts can be just as effective. Invest in a few essential pieces of equipment (dumbbells, resistance bands, etc.) or utilize bodyweight exercises to create a challenging and rewarding workout routine in the comfort of your own home.
For Inspiration check out our library of Resistance Band and Dumbbell Exercises
Engage in Active Hobbies
Incorporate fitness into your hobbies and leisure activities. Join a recreational sports league, take up hiking or cycling, or try out dance classes. Not only will you be having fun, but you’ll also be staying active and improving your overall fitness.
Make it a Family Affair
Encourage your family members or loved ones to join you in your fitness journey. Plan active outings or workouts together. Not only will this strengthen your bond, but it also creates accountability and motivation.
Use Technology to Your Advantage
Make use of fitness apps, wearables, and online resources to track your progress, set goals, and stay motivated. These tools can provide guidance, accountability, and even some friendly competition to keep you on track.
Adapt and Stay Consistent
As your daily routine evolves, be adaptable to changes and find ways to make fitness a priority. Consistency is key, so stay committed to your goals even when life gets busy or challenging. Remember, progress is made by those who show up consistently.
Conclusion
We may not share the same taste in music, but I hope that we will share the same passion and habits of strength training. Incorporating fitness into your daily routine is not only achievable but essential for your overall well-being. By implementing these practical tips and making small changes, you can create healthy habits that will transform your life.
Remember to start small, prioritize your time, get creative with your approach, and build the habits in your life that you want. So, join me on this journey and make Fitness a Lifelong Habit!
References: Classical Conditioning since Pavlov | Cognitive Consistency Theory in Social Psychology: A Paradigm Reconsidered
