fiteatrest If you asked me for a secret to staying fit, I’d give you a one word answer - consistency. Consistency is key when it comes to achieving fitness goals, especially for women over 40. With busy schedules and changing bodies, staying on track with workouts can be challenging. However, by implementing some simple strategies, you can build consistency and make exercise a regular part of your routine. Here are 10 tips to help you stay motivated and committed to your workouts:
Set Realistic Goals
It might be tempting to go to the gym every day but will it happen with your current schedule? Start by setting achievable goals that align with your fitness level and lifestyle. Whether it's completing a certain number of workouts per week or improving strength and flexibility, setting realistic goals will keep you focused and motivated. Start small and have an option for derailed workouts - rescheduling or doing a short walk later, or practicing yoga with a video.
Create a Schedule
Treat your workouts like appointments and schedule them into your calendar. By carving out dedicated time for exercise, you're more likely to stick to it. Plus, having a set schedule helps you plan other activities around your workouts. If it’s important to you, put it on the calendar and treat it like a doctor’s appointment - something important not to miss.
Do what you like
Find Activities You Enjoy: experiment with different types of exercise until you find activities that you genuinely enjoy. Whether it's yoga, walking, dancing, or swimming, choosing activities that you look forward to will make it easier to stay consistent. If everyone is doing pilates but you are struggling with it, it is unlikely you can build consistency there. So choose what you like.
Mix It Up
Keep your workouts interesting by mixing up your routine. Incorporate a variety of exercises, such as cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises, to prevent boredom and keep your body challenged. Not only is the variety beneficial for your fitness, but it will keep you more entertained.
Set Reminders
Use technology to your advantage by setting reminders on your phone or fitness tracker to prompt you to exercise. Seeing a reminder pop up can serve as a gentle nudge to get moving, especially on busy days. You would do the same for other appointments, right?
Find a Workout Buddy
This is one of the best ways to keep up with a fitness routine. Partnering up with a friend or family member can make workouts more enjoyable and hold you accountable. Having someone to share your fitness journey with can provide motivation and support.
Track Your Progress
Keep track of your workouts and progress to see how far you've come. Whether you use a fitness app, a journal, or a simple calendar, tracking your workouts can help you stay motivated and celebrate your achievements. Every small victory, whether you can run a little longer or lift a little more weight, will motivate you to continue.
Plan in exercise snacks
Sometimes having less on your plate makes it an easier endeavor to actually do it. Instead of planning an hour for exercise, split it into smaller bite-size workouts/walks/rides. Making it less challenging will encourage you to do it more. Plus, you’d be moving more throughout the day, staying active.
Stay Flexible
Life can be unpredictable - last minute work project that keeps you late, sick kids that need you to pick them up early, bad weather that closes the roads, etc. So it's essential to stay flexible with your workout routine. If you miss a workout or two, don't get discouraged. Instead, adjust your schedule and get back on track when you can.
Celebrate Small Victories
Celebrate your progress and accomplishments, no matter how small. Mark it in your planner or give yourself a gold star on an app. Whether it's completing a challenging workout or reaching a fitness milestone, acknowledging your successes will boost your confidence and motivation to keep going.
Remember, consistency is about progress, not perfection. By incorporating these strategies into your routine and staying committed to your fitness goals, you can build consistency in your workouts and enjoy the many benefits of regular exercise at any age. As the saying goes, "The best project you'll ever work on is you." So, lace up those sneakers, put on your favorite workout playlist, and let's get moving!
