Life hack: exercise motivation
Balancing a job with personal life often leaves little room for exercise, but staying active is so important for both physical and mental well-being. Here are three practical strategies to help you incorporate exercise into your busy schedule:
1. Embrace Enjoyable Activities
This is my number one exercise hack. It’s made a huge difference to the level of exercise I do. I find exercise is also the number one strategy to manage mental health - it’s a tonic for feeling better.
So engage in physical activities you genuinely enjoy, it doesn’t have to be a hard HIIT gym session at 5am, it can be a quick yoga class you do at home using your phone. The key is to do things that increase the likelihood of consistency and just get the body moving. For instance, if you find walking enjoyable, commit to a daily walk or even four or five days a week.
This is where the hack kicks in….
On days when motivation wanes, adopt the "15-minute rule": start your walk, and if after 15 minutes you're still not feeling it, allow yourself to stop. Often, initiating the activity is the hardest part, and once you're moving, you'll choose to continue.
2. Schedule Workouts as Non-Negotiable Appointments
Treat your exercise sessions with the same importance as work meetings or medical appointments. By blocking out specific times in your calendar for workouts, you create a structured routine that integrates seamlessly into your day. This approach reduces the likelihood of skipping exercise due to other commitments.
3. Leverage Social Support
Exercising with friends or joining group classes can enhance motivation and accountability. The social aspect makes workouts more enjoyable and provides a support system that encourages consistency. Whether it's a virtual workout buddy or a local fitness group, sharing the experience can make a significant difference.
Incorporating these strategies can help you maintain a regular exercise routine, even amidst a hectic schedule. Remember, the key is to find activities you enjoy, plan them into your day, and seek support to stay motivated.