Let’s be honest, this pandemic has caused many of our routines and habits to go askew these past couple of months. I myself have found it difficult to get back into the routine of work and exercise regime. But as we slowly return to normal (what is normal nowadays) I have found key factors that help keep myself accountable.
First, every week I set Time Blocks for when I have clients and when I teach PFTA courses. Then I add in potential workout times throughout the week that doubles as a reminder to take time out of my day to complete a workout. It may seem like a chore, but I feel great after I workout and consider it to be a productive day if I can squeeze in a good workout.
And a “workout” does not have to revolve around weights or going to a
gym. It can be a 30 minute walk, a quick yoga session (youtube has a surplus of free yoga videos), stretching and breathing exercises, etc. the options are endless, just move your body! Find something that interests you or that you enjoy doing, it will make the workout less of a task and more of a self-care routine. My son and I play out in the backyard to get out our energy and get our hearts pumping!
Find an accountability buddy that will go on this journey with you, someone to check in on you, or go on socially distanced walks with you. Look for fitness/personal trainers in your area that you can meet with at least once a week to prioritize getting you up and moving every week; they can create a program or meal plan that will suit your needs and concerns. You do not have to do this alone.
Second step, set up short term and long term goals. Short term goals are things you want to achieve within the next 1-3 months and should be at least 50% attainable (Free Template available below). Such as:
Walking 3x a week
Moving your body for 30 min a day
Walking your dog at the park 2x a week
Or anything you want to complete in the near future. Long term goals are things you want to achieve within the next 6 months to a year (Free Template available below). Such as:
Running a marathon
Increasing your stamina
Be more flexible
Run a mile
Anything you want to be able do later in your fitness journey.
Third step, once you have identified your short-term and long-term goals print them out and tape them on your bathroom mirror, put it on your fridge, the back of your bedroom door; any place that you will see it every day and remind yourself to take time out of your busy day to do something for you!
With these three steps you can be on your way to creating a new routine
for yourself that prioritizes your health and well-being. Take the first step and start your journey today.