Regular "Good Habits" Exercise 

Niki Baggs

Hello Good People!

Acknowledging the winter blues and the undeniable allure of comfort and convenience in today's world! So with this in mind the prospect of regular exercise might seem intimidating and a lot of effort, especially for those proudly wearing the "lazy" badge (guilty as charged in the winter). However, the perks of physical activity, from enhanced mental well-being to a boost in energy levels, are too good to pass up. The exciting news is that integrating regular exercise into a lazy lifestyle need not be an arduous endeavour. In fact, it can be a gradual and enjoyable journey. Let's delve into some strategies to make regular exercise more accessible for the self-proclaimed lazy bunch.

1. Start Small: Feeling overwhelmed by the idea of intense workout routines? No worries. Instead of plunging headfirst into an exhaustive exercise plan, kick things off with small, manageable steps. Incorporate short walks, gentle stretches, or quick home workouts into your daily routine (YouTube is a treasure trove for this). Slowly but surely, increase the duration and intensity as your body eases into the routine.

2. Find Enjoyable Activities: Traditional workouts and the thought of hitting the gym might not be everyone's cup of tea. The key is to find physical activities that genuinely bring you joy. Whether it's a leisurely walk in nature, dancing, swimming, kickboxing, hiking, or playing a sport, opt for activities that make exercise feel less like a chore and more like a fun adventure.

3. Incorporate Everyday Movement: We can all benefit from weaving physical activity into our daily lives. Choose the stairs over the elevator, opt for a walk instead of a drive to nearby places, or turn household chores into a fitness session. Little actions add up, contributing to overall fitness.

4. Set Realistic Goals: Unrealistic fitness goals can be demoralizing, leading us to abandon exercise altogether. Set achievable, realistic goals aligned with your current fitness level. Celebrate small victories, gradually intensifying your workouts as your stamina grows.

5. Make it a Social Activity: Transform exercise into a social affair by joining meet-up groups, sports clubs, attending group fitness classes, or simply taking walks with friends. The social element not only adds enjoyment but also provides an accountability boost.

6. Create a Routine: Maintain momentum by incorporating exercise into your daily routine. Allocate a specific time each day for physical activity, making it non-negotiable. Consistency is key, and establishing a routine helps cultivate a healthy habit over time.

7. Reward Yourself: Motivate yourself by incorporating rewards into your exercise routine. Treat yourself to a favorite snack, indulge in an episode of your beloved TV show, or luxuriate in a relaxing bath post-workout. Positive reinforcement breaks the cycle of laziness, fostering a positive association with exercise.

In conclusion, regular exercise doesn't have to be an insurmountable challenge. By starting small, embracing enjoyable activities, incorporating everyday movement, setting realistic goals, making it a social activity, creating a routine, and treating yourself, you can transform exercise from a burdensome task into an accessible and even enjoyable part of your lifestyle. Remember, the journey toward a healthier and more active life is about progress, not perfection. 

To explore your goals through wellness coaching can lead to genuine success -in planning realistic goals that move you forward to healthier living.