9 tips to get you back on track exercising

Going away on vacation, getting sick or having an extra busy week can throw a wrench in your good habits. Check out the simple tips below to help you get back on track:

  1. Start small. Studies have shown that 10 minutes of exercise a day can provide health benefits.
  2. Hold yourself accountable by tracking your workouts, making an appointment with a trainer or by participating in group fitness classes.
  3. Enlist a friend, family member or coworker to join you.
  4. Be realistic with your goals. Start by tracking the number of minutes you exercise each week and increase duration, intensity and frequency as you go.
  5. Do what you love. Find a physical activity that you enjoy so you’re more likely to stick with it.
  6. Take it one day at a time. It takes time to change habits. Focus on what you can do each day to better yourself.
  7. Try something new. Make a new workout playlist or try a different type of workout.
  8. Plan, prepare, schedule. Set yourself up for success by keeping a pair of sneakers and workout clothes in your car and scheduling your workout into you day.
  9. Cut back on alcohol, drink more water and go to bed earlier to feel refreshed and energized for your workout the next day.

Resources: American Heart Association

Erica Baxter, ACSM EP-C