Create a healthy habit of ‘activity’

Everyone can benefit from daily exercise, but using the word ‘exercise’ isn’t necessary, so let’s replace it with ‘activity’. Any new habit may have challenging beginnings, but in time, nearly anything can become habitual. It’s important to create healthy habits, so let’s discuss daily ‘activity’.

Write it down. One of the main reasons people will not stick to a healthy habit is lack of time. It’s important to understand that in order to create a healthy habit and one that involves activity you must not only commit to it but write it down. It’s amazing how simply writing it down will help you stick to a routine. Make and appointment to perform some type of physical activity daily, such as walking, stretching, cycling, swimming, or dancing and keep your body as healthy as it can possibly be.

Ask a friend. Another reason many will not stick to a daily routine is because of boredom or loneliness. Have a friend or your significant other join you. It’s a good time to spend with others and can definitely make things a lot more enjoyable. {A workout partner will also make you feel a greater sense of responsibility; no one likes to let other people down.}

Mix it up. Come up with a variety of activities. There’s no reason you can’t swim one day, walk the next, and ride your bike the day after that. So think about everything the world has to offer and keep yourself entertained as well.

Take it slow. One of the biggest reasons many will stop any type of physical activity is because of injury. You may have been able to run a 5-minute mile back in the day, but it’s time to face reality. Although your mind may not age, your body is not the same you had 10 or even 20 years ago. Take it slow and steady and loosen up the muscles. As long as you’re getting comfortably tired by the end of your workout, you’re on the right track.

Make no excuses. You may be tempted to stop your daily activity if you have to drive across town to a health club. The truth is that a health club really isn’t necessary. Don’t allow excuses to ruin your road to a healthier lifestyle. A simple set of weights, a jump rope, or some running shoes are probably all you really need. Wipe off the dust from your bicycle and take it for a spin, no excuses allowed.

Track your progress. It’s a lot easier to stay interested and motivated when you can see some real progress. Fortunately, progress comes quickly at the beginning of any exercise program. So devise a test of your fitness that you can do occasionally. It can be simple, like how many pushups you can do, or how long it takes you to walk a mile.

Implementing daily activity can be challenging. While it is diffilcult to get into the habit, it’s relatively easy to stick with it after the initial period has passed. Get out there with a friend and have some fun every day! You’ll be healthier, feel better, and look better. Good luck!

How can you make exercise a healthy habit in your life?

Dr. Daisy Sutherland

Dr. Daisy Sutherland is the Founder/CEO of Dr. Mommy Online. She is a doctor, author, mentor, speaker, wife & mom to 5 children. Dr. Mommy's mission is to Help Busy Women and Men with her 'Get Real' approach to living a happier and healthier lifestyle. She is also the author of Letting Go of Super Mom.

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