8 Real Steps to a Fitter, Happier, Healthier You

Manage yourself fit with these 8 easy steps

Taking control of your fitness is important, but people often don't understand that getting fit might take a little planning.

Exercise may be a choice which comes easily to individuals who are already fit, but can create anxiety in people who are not fit. For the fit, the rewards are immediate—the positive energy generated and endorphins released create a high that is addictive. For the unfit, exercise hurts and the pain may last for days so the feel-good endorphins are unlikely to be released at first. You need to find a way to motivate yourself.

1. Without instant rewards, the bad may outweigh the good so the first step to take is to write down all the pros and cons of exercise.
2. Now rate how much each factor applies to you. The pros may include increased energy or improved libido. Most of the cons, on the other hand, you will quickly find are merely excuses.
3. Step three is to write down how to overcome the excuses. For example: if a gym membership is too expensive, consider exercising outdoors; if exercising takes time from the family, everyone will be healthier by doing something together.
4. Step four is to consider the intrinsic motivation of how much happier you will be.
5. Step five is to not aim too high—be realistic and set achievable goals. 
6. Step six is to commit to your new lifestyle by reminding yourself that you will live longer. 
7. Step seven is to prioritize your activities to include time for you.
8. Step eight is to do it now and do it often. 

The hardest part of exercising is getting started but you will soon be happier when you realize you are living to exercise rather than just exercising to live a healthier life.


Image: Unsplash | Allef Vinicius

Resources:

The Motivation to Exercise – Joanna McMilan-Price – TheFoodCoach

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