How to Stick to Your Exercise Goal

Many people desire to exercise, yet have trouble meeting that goal. This article will help people overcome common obstacles to working out.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Equipment will vary based on the form of exercise chosen.

1. Find exercise you like and can do regularly. Kayaking is a bad choice if you can only get to the water every three months. Running is good exercise, but not if you hate it. Exercise you like is the best kind.
2. Choose exercise that matches your personality. An outgoing person might thrive in fitness classes, while an introvert might prefer the solitude of an evening walk.
3. Choose a realistic time of day to exercise. Don't set your alarm to exercise at 5 am if you are not a morning person.
4. Make an incremental goal to improve your fitness level. If you can dance for 30 minutes, make your goal to dance for 35 minutes.
5. Share your exercise plans with others to increase your accountability.
6. Avoid an "all-or-nothing" approach. Missing two days of exercise doesn't mean your program has failed. Just try again!
7. Your workout should match your fitness level. Some beginners push themselves way too hard, and then abandon their exercise plans when they become injured or sick.
8. Be flexible about which days you exercise, so you can adapt your exercise plans if your schedule changes.
9. Give yourself a healthy reward when you meet your fitness goals.
10. Have fun! People are more likely to stick with exercise they enjoy.