Making Exercise a Part of Your Day

Adding exercise to your busy life can be hard, but it can be done. Even regular exercisers had to start somewhere. The first step knowing that you need to start, and then deciding that you are ready.

Your first step will be whether you need to join a gym. Gyms offer a good mix of classes and trainers. You'll also have other members who can support you. Some people may choose to workout at home instead because they like saving money, not having to drive anywhere, and choosing their own workouts. Whichever you choose, you will be healthier as long as you stick to it.

Some people turn to the sports that they enjoy watching. You may want to join a pickup basketball game in your neighborhood, or a local softball or bowling league. These are great ways to fit in regular workouts while making new friends.

Once people become regular exercisers, they share these common traits:

• Always having a Plan B—If they planned to go for a walk and it is raining, they head for an exercise bike.
• Seeing exercise as a normal part of their routine—They workout because it is something that they have turned into a habit.
• Expecting obstacles—Something is going to get in the way, such as an injury or an event. Regular exercisers view it as a bump in the road and not a roadblock.
• Not overexerting—An injury from pushing too hard can cause many people to drop out of their routine. Regular exercisers don't have as many injuries. They work up to their fitness goals slowly.
• Keeping themselves entertained—Regular exercisers often turn to music, TV, and podcasts to push through their workouts.
• Exercising in the morning—The later it gets, the more excuses most people find not to work out.
• Learning how to push out negative thoughts—Your inner athlete must have the last word.

Revision Information

• Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Michael Woods, MD
• Review Date: 01/2017
• Update Date: 04/23/2020