For many of us, establishing strong exercise habits is a goal, but it can be challenging to find consistency. At Washington Health and Drug, we understand that it can be difficult to accomplish your exercise goals, but there are plenty of ways that you can promote strong exercise habits and become a healthier version of yourself. Here are some of our top suggestions for the best ways to promote strong exercise habits:
1. Set S.M.A.R.T. Goals
When starting out, it is important to be clear with yourself about your goals, which is why using the S.M.A.R.T. framework can be useful. This model encourages setting Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-Based goals, which improves your overall chances of success. S.M.A.R.T. goals allow you to track your progress, evaluate your success, and hold yourself accountable along the way, all of which are important if you are looking to promote strong exercise habits.
2. Exercise With Others
Another helpful way to promote strong exercise habits is to exercise with others. By finding a workout buddy or group, you can make exercising more fun while also introducing an additional element of accountability. Whether you decide to exercise with your significant other, a friend, a family member, or anyone else, involving others in your exercise goals is a great way to promote strong exercise habits.
3. Find Physical Activities You Enjoy
Who ever said that exercise can’t be fun? By finding types of exercise that you enjoy, you can promote strong exercise habits by having fun while accomplishing your health goals. Perhaps you decide to give rock climbing a try, or maybe you want to go mountain biking! Even something simple like going to the pool to swim laps can introduce an element of fun that will keep you coming back for more.
4. Incorporate Exercise Into Daily Life
Another way to promote strong exercise habits is to make small choices throughout your day to day life that make exercise a priority. For instance, if you live close to work, you could try biking to and from the office. You can also do small things like take the stairs instead of the elevator in order to give yourself little bits of exercise here and there. This way, physical activity will become part of your general mindset!
5. Reward Yourself!
Remember, it is important to celebrate your successes along the way! When you accomplish certain exercise goals, consider rewarding yourself with something that reflects the hard work you have put in. Whether you decide to buy yourself a new set of workout clothes, go see a movie, or have your favorite meal, rewarding yourself can help to keep your motivation high as you work to promote strong exercise habits.
When you use some of these strategies, you can promote strong exercise habits within yourself and make physical activity a core part of your lifestyle. And if you are looking for even more ways to prioritize your health and wellbeing, check out some of these helpful tips for establishing healthy eating habits!
