Losing weight and striving to exercise more are probably common resolutions for some of us. However, finding time to exercise can be a challenging task as a student, on top of an already hectic schedule.
How many of you can relate to this? You set out with the goal of getting more exercise and you do for a while. But a few weeks into a new workout routine, your motivation dwindles.
It can feel like an impossible task to find the time and energy to exercise when you're juggling school work, a social life, and rushing deadlines. Therefore, we often end up giving up the one activity we find the least enjoyable—exercising.
Looking back, I didn't always consider working out essential and viewed it as something to do if I had spare time or felt energetic enough.
Finding a suitable workout routine has been a gradual process for me, and it's an ongoing journey with both good and bad days.
Whether you’ve never exercised consistently or you’re looking to improve your workout habits, let me share four (tried and tested) tips on how to find an exercise routine that works for you!
1. Start small and build momentum
If it has been a while since you last exercised, it's best to start small and gradually build momentum. Being overly ambitious without a long-term plan can result in disappointment, ultimately losing motivation and giving up after only a few workouts.
The key to making exercise a regular part of your life is to focus on creating a habit and turning it into a lifestyle. It's not always easy, but setting yourself up for success is essential. Here are some workouts you can complete even when you're tired, stressed, or unmotivated:
· 5-minute walk: Set a goal for just five minutes every day. Chances are you'll keep going a little longer than that.
· 10 min quick and easy abs workout: This abs sculpt workout by Blogilates includes five simple exercises that focus on building a strong core
· Body weight exercises: Another way to keep things simple is to choose a few exercises that don't require equipment. Try a squat, lunge, crunches, or jumping jack!
· 15 min stretching: After a long day, this full-body stretch will help you to relax and destress
By starting with smaller goals, exercise becomes more manageable and we are more likely to maintain a consistent routine.
2. Choose activities that you enjoy
Exercise is not all about going to the gym or lifting weights. If all your friends love spinning or HIIT, that doesn’t mean you have to enjoy it too.
Finding a workout you genuinely enjoy will help you to stay motivated and establish a regular exercise routine. For me, it took months of trying out different activities before eventually sticking to what works for me—boxing, HIIT classes and swimming!
It's alright if you don't have any activity preferences. Pick a few activities you think you’d enjoy and give them a try! Here are some ideas:
· Go for a brisk walk or a run
· Go cycling
· Take a hike or discover a new walking trail around your neighbourhood
· Sign up for a dance class or Zumba class
· Go for a swim
· Try yoga, spinning or Pilates
Most importantly, remember that exercise isn’t just ‘going to the gym’—everyone’s fitness journey is different and you can choose what you enjoy!
3. Find a workout buddy
If you aren’t someone who loves exercise, maybe a workout buddy is just what you need to motivate you in your fitness journey!
Finding the motivation to fit in a workout after a long day can be a struggle. You may be inclined to skip a workout if it’s just you, but would you back out on a friend?
I have found that working out with a friend helps me be accountable and stay on track with my goals. On days when we are low on motivation, having a fitness buddy provides mutual support and encouragement.
Over the years, I have found different workout buddies for various activities. My Poly friend and I go for an occasional run, while my University friend and I signed up for many trial classes together—spinning, trampoline/bounce and boxing. Not only do we get a good workout, but we’ve gotten closer by sweating it out together!
Likewise, find a friend with similar workout interests and goals and start planning to go together! It’ll help to motivate you to stay active.
4. Reward yourself
What’s the key to sticking to your goals? Celebrating all your fitness wins along the way! From small progresses to big milestones, it’s easier to stick to your exercise routine when you reward yourself regularly.
Whether it’s reaching a new personal best in your fitness journey, trying a new activity or completing a 5KM run, don’t hesitate to treat yourself to something you enjoy. Of course, we should reinforce good habits that are healthy or non-food related.
Here are some ideas to reward ourselves post-workout:
- Binge an hour of Netflix guilt-free
- Rejuvenate with a short nap
- Grab a freshly squeezed fruit juice
- Buy new exercise clothes
- Take a hot bath
- Add new songs to your workout playlist
Choosing a reward that is truly meaningful to you is crucial for establishing a healthy, sustainable relationship with exercise.
For me, having a refreshing cup of orange juice after a challenging workout has always been a great motivator. But it's important to find what works best for you—whether it's treating yourself to a relaxing day off or a fun outing with friends.
Fitness is a lifestyle, not an end-goal
Maintaining a regular workout routine and staying dedicated to your fitness goals results in more than just physical health improvements. It can also boost your productivity!
If you're feeling daunted by the idea of developing a fitness habit, don't worry, that’s completely normal. Start by taking small steps and remember to listen to your body.
If you’ve been going too hard, it’s perfectly fine to take a break and rest! Starting a workout routine shouldn’t be stressful, but a helpful self-care measure that makes you feel better instead.
Remember, there will be tough days and setbacks, but keep pushing forward and making progress toward your goals.
