1) Select activities that you enjoy.
If you pick an activity you don't enjoy, you will be less likely to keep exercising. Don't be afraid to try out a new activity, even if that means learning new skills. Bailey's has a wide variety of fitness equipment, group fitness classes, and exercise programs that almost assure you will find something you enjoy.
2) Cross-Train.
(Combine different activities.) Cross-training will help prevent boredom by detering the monotony of repeating the same activity every day. (It's also one of the top ways to prevent injury!) You can cross-train by doing 2 or 3 different activities the same week.
For Example:
Day 1 - take an aerobics class or walk on the treadmill.
Day 2 - ride a stationary bike and do an upper body weight training workout.
Day 3 - take an indoor cycling class then train your lower body.
3) Set aside a regular time for exercise.
If you don't plan ahead, exercise is a lot easier to skip. Holding your exercise hour "sacred" helps you adhere to the program.
4) Obtain the proper equipment for exercise.
A poor pair of shoes, for example, can make you more prone to injury, discouraging you right from the beginning.
5) Find a friend or group of friends to exercise with.
Social interaction will make exercise more fulfilling. Either bring in a friend to join with you or start talking to some other members. Once you get into a regular routine, you'll be surprised how easy it is to get to know the other people who work out consistently at the same time you do. It's harder to skip if someone else is waiting for you.
6) Don't become a compulsive exerciser.
Learn to listen to your body. Over-exercising can lead to chronic fatigue and injuries. Exercise should be enjoyable, and in the process you should stop and smell the roses.
7) Change your scenery.
For your convenience, Bailey's Powerhouse Gyms has many locations. You may join one, and work out at all locations. To add variety to your fitness routine, you can completely change your environment by working out at your primary gym during the week, then taking your workouts to another Bailey's Gym on the weekend.
8) Keep a regular record of your activities.
Keeping a record allows you to monitor your progress and compare it against previous months and years.
9) Set goals and share them with others.
Quitting is tougher when someone else knows what you are trying to accomplish. When you reach a targeted goal, reward yourself with something like a new outfit or piece of athletic equipment.
10) Conduct periodic assessments.
Is the intensity level you're used to exercising at becoming easy? Is it time to bump up a few pounds on those shoulder raises? Assess your current fitness level and adjust your program accordingly. Improving to a higher fitness category is a reward in itself and in doing so you'll help ensure that you will continue to see results.
11) If health problems arise, see a physician.
When in doubt, it's better to be safe.
