I’ll admit it: my track record for going to the gym during the month of December was terrible. I think I went twice. Ouch. Sure, I have the excuses of a newborn baby and all of the craziness of the holidays, but I probably could have gotten in a few more trips to the elliptical and free weights. In the new year, I am really making the effort and geting to the gym every day. How’s that for a cliche New Year’s resolution?
Want to know how to get to the gym every day? It just takes careful planning, accountability, and motivation.
1. I keep a to-do list of all my daily tasks on my phone and my computer, so every day I know what needs to get accomplished.
On the top of the list each day is a note to go to the gym. Having that daily reminder in my face each morning makes it a priority. I feel terrible checking an item off of my list if I haven’t accomplished it, so having the gym be a daily task makes it a goal that I have to pay attention to. I make sure to build it into my schedule, either in the morning before I start work, as a part of my lunch break, or in the early evening. That is a huge part of getting to the gym each day, making the time available. Put it on the books and it will have to get done.
2. I make it a priority.
I often feel like I don’t have a spare hour in the day, but I’ve found that I do have the time when I make it a priority. If you kept track of how much time is wasted each day on Facebook or watching TV, you would see there are hours in the day that could be more productive. (Another confession: I like to watch a 45 minute show on Netflix while I am using the cardio machines. I should probably cut that out and focus a bit more.) You can get a great workout in a very short amount of time if you do some research and get some help. Find a trainer at the gym to help you maximize your workout time, or follow some workout routines from magazines or online, and you can get some great exercise in under a half hour.
3. Going to the gym doesn’t necessarily have to mean literally “going to the gym.”
I get an equally great workout at home or outside. I’ll go for a run or a bike ride, or pop in a workout video in the comfort of my living room when I don’t feel like leaving the house.
Getting healthy and exercising is one of my priorities in the new year. If you want to join me and are struggling for motivation, find a buddy to help motivate you. Invest in the proper equipment like a new water bottle, gym clothes, and quality headphones. The hardest part is getting started, but once you do, you will feel healthier, look better, and be on your way to a great 2015!
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