How to build a healthy routine.
Living in the mountains had its challenges. But stay committed.
It’s that time of the year again when the New Year Resolutions start coming out. I’ve never been a huge fan of setting these types of goals. Why wait for next year to start something that you want in your life NOW. I love setting targets, but Im also old enough and wise enough to know that they don’t always go to plan and rather that get discouraged and give up I adjust my plan.
I have found the best way to achieve the the things I want is to have a healthy achievable routine.
I love routines. They can be a little boring for some people, but if you want to get things done having a daily routine is vital in my opinion. Especially when it comes to your health and fitness. Eating the same or similar healthy foods each day and having set workout days and times is critical. Try setting weekly targets to begin with then move onto monthly targets. Make these achievable so you can see progress. Progress is what keep us motivated.
I revert back to when I coached and still competed in track and Field. We literally had a 12 month plan mapped out. Same training days, at the same time for many many years. 20 to be exact..
They say motivation comes from seeing results. Not big results, just results. I think this makes sense and can remind us that when setting goals and new routines, make them small and achievable.
As they say, the best exercise and eating plan, is one that you will stick to.
Have a plan
Set achievable goals - Im going to walk for 5 mins 3 times per week.
Commit to a workout partner, coach or trainer
Celebrate your results. No matter how small.
Be consistent
I still write down my monthly workout plan. This way I can quickly look up what I have planned for the day.
Currently Im trying to put on a few kilos and to get back into running. I log my daily food intake into My Fitness Pal to ensure I am consuming enough calories with a focus on protein. And I record my running miles on my Garmin watch. This allows me to see my progress each week/month and to stay committed. If you struggle with motivation, make a commitment to a friend or family member and create a some healthy competition. Set a penalty program in place with this person.
Example: Lets walk 3 times per week at this time. If you miss more than 2 session in a week you have to wash my car. Make that penalty something fun but with enough pain that you you want to avoid it.
Happy holidays.
Rod