Yesterday I got a text from a good friend:
Trisha and I met right after Shoo was born and immediately clicked. She was there as I worked off all of the baby pounds (and literally ran from postpartum depression). She rolled her eyes at me as I became addicted to races. She supported my crazy decision to run a marathon (and even offered to watch my kids so I could get my runs in.) So, it made me feel good that she reached out to me to help her get back in shape.
I called her and shared all of the suggestions I could think of (because really she doesn’t need to hire me, she just needs a cheerleader and I’ll do that for free.)
What I suggested:
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- Find a time in your schedule that works for you – don’t worry about what the “experts” say. Look at *your* schedule and find a time that you are most likely to do something.
- Schedule it – make an appointment with yourself to workout. Trust me, 30 minutes of sweat time a few times a week is just as important (if not more so) as getting the oil changed in your car.
- Do whatever activity/movement *you* enjoy – Just because everyone around you raves about running or the new Zumba class doesn’t mean that’s what you need to do.
- Try something new – can’t figure out what you want to do or stuck in a rut? Take advantage of the many “deals” that are going around to try something that’s out of your comfort zone. Who knows, you may love it. And if you don’t, you’ve only wasted a small amount of money and you’ve still gotten your sweat on.
- Every little bit counts and be proud of every positive choice you make – fitness is not an all or nothing choice, despite what many people seem to preach. Small choices like eating a piece of fruit instead of a cookie or choosing to walk up the stairs a few extra times DO add up, especially when you are just getting back at it.
- Find a challenge – either set a goal for yourself, find a online challenge (I’m doing HBBC and 30 for 60), or get a group of girlfriends to compete. Whatever helps keep you moving, especially over the holidays.
- Find a partner or a cheerleader – if you like working out with someone, find a person to run or walk or go to the gym with. If not, enlist a friend or family member to help hold you accountable.
What are your tips for getting back in the exercise habit after a break? I know that sometimes I just have to force myself to do it.
If only getting up and off our butts were that simple sometimes!Having a lame moment this morning due to the weather. Rainy and 40 degrees, is not very inviting! But I guess it is better that freezing rain!
So true! I was somewhat embarrassed this summer to do the couch to 5k (the walking was the part that got me, of course), but after five years of pretty much no physical exercise it was exactly what I needed. I even got my husband to do it with me and it became our little "date" time while our three kids played on the playground. (we used to run on dates before we got married) Now we've both started running local races which is so much fun and motivating.Point is, I finally had to just get off my butt! And, of course, your blog was one of the first I found to help motivate me.
So true. And I really love number 3–I tell people that all the time. Once you find that activity that clicks for you, the rest is gravy.
At the very least, get up during tv commercials and walk or jog in place. Everyone can start somewhere, as you say. Just do something, which is already a step up from nothing or very little. Helping people find an entry point is so critical.Kymberly
Great tips. I definitely believe in scheduling it in just like you would any other appointment. Make it a habit. And definitely do what makes you happiest or you won't want to do it period.
Aww, I'm famous…. And I still love you!!!
Good luck with making the change Trisha. It can be the hardest thing to do some days but you will always feel better once you've gotten some exercise in.
Starting is SO hard!!! I also like the rule:Tell yourself you'll go [insert activity] for 10 minutes, and that after 10 minutes, you're allowed to stop. Chances are, after 10 minutes, you won't want to stop 🙂
Great tips thanks for sharing!!!!
Do you have similar suggestions for eating better? I have no trouble exercising – ever- but man am I having problems these days eating well.
So easy but so difficult to do sometimes!
Awe, I love this post. Everyone needs a friend like that.