Set realistic goals: Don’t strive for perfection. Why? Improbable goals can’t be met. Set the bar at a reachable place.
Unfortunately, I’m not a gym rat. Yes, I’m one of those people who finds it hard to keep motivated (and moving on a treadmill, for that matter!) when it comes to a fitness regimen. Try as I might, lifting weights, breaking a sweat and burning the weekend’s calories aren’t a few of my favorite things. But — and there’s always a but — as I get older, I realize how important it is to stay active and healthy.
With this said, my top tips to getting fit are:
1. Commit
2. Commit
3. Commit
4. If possible, get a trainer who motivates you, or take classes with a teacher you gel with, or hit the gym or great outdoors at least 3 times a week
5. Diet along with exercise
While numbers 4 and 5 are the most obvious recommendations, it’s numbers 1, 2 and 3 which I feel are the most important when it come to accomplishing one’s fitness goals. And we’re talking the dreaded “C” word — commitment. When it comes to weight loss and keeping fit, you’ve got to make a pledge or promise to yourself.
How can you help yourself commit to a healthy workout ethic? Here are some tips:
1. Set realistic goals: Don’t strive for perfection. Why? Improbable goals can’t be met. Set the bar at a reachable place.
2. Be consistent: No exercise program works if you don’t do it consistently. Working out three days a week is most recommended (sigh).
3. Engage in activities you “love:” Fine. I deplore the gym. But I’ve realized that the Elliptical machine and I can get along for 30 minutes while tuned into CNN. So if dancing is your thing, try Zumba. Adore tennis? Take up lessons. You’re more inclined to commit and be successful at activities you genuinely enjoy.
4. Be patient: I’m an instant results kind of guy, too. But when it comes to staying fit, I’ve realized that slow and steady wins the race. Hang in there and you’ll see solid results. Promise.
