9 Fantastic Tips to Get You Moving

Author Bio

Cathy is a fitness expert at garagegymplanner.com.

She writes regularly on topics revolving around exercise and diet and helps educate readers on the best ways to improve their health and looks naturally.

Exercising and keeping to a regular workout schedule can be a hard task, especially if you don’t like exercising and find it hard to stay motivated. But everyone can do it!
The secret to maintaining a good exercise routine is to start with something that is fun, and slowly increase the intensity over time. Enjoying what you are doing is more important than doing a certain number of squats.

Here are our…

9 Tips That Will Get You Moving and Keep You Motivated

1 – Choose an exercise that you love

Pick an exercise that is fun instead of something that you’re totally uncomfortable with. Consider taking your dog for a walk, playing football with your grandchildren or swimming. Choose something that’s fun for you so that exercise isn’t a chore.

It’s all about turning exercise into a positive experience, and building momentum from there.

2 – Be consistent

Whether you want to lose weight or build bone strength, you should be consistent with your routine. Prepare a plan and stick to it – it can be a daily, bi-weekly, or weekly plan, but make sure that you meet your commitment without fail. If you allow yourself to lapse once, it’s much more tempting to do it again.

3 – Take it one step at a time

With a tough goal in mind, it’s easy to get a bit over-excited and burn out after a few weeks. Start with easier goals that are appropriate for your fitness level. Don’t expect to turn into Rocky on day one. Set new goals as you get used to each step of your routine.

Just remember to start with workouts that are safe and enjoyable, and work up from there. If you are at higher risk from fractures, please consult a medical professional first.

4 – Invite a workout buddy

Exercising alone can get boring sometimes. Invite a friend with a similar fitness level and complete a 45-minute workout together. Apart from challenging yourself, you also get to cheer each other on!

5 – Get outdoors

Being surrounded by nature is a brilliant mood-lifter. Mix up your fitness routine by going for bike rides around a nice neighborhood, or a walk through a park with lush green surroundings. Hiking is a great way to increase your fitness level and is considered a fantastic weight-bearing exercise.

You will also be getting a good amount of vitamin D, something that is important for those suffering from osteoporosis.

6 – Join a sports group

If there is one particular sport you’re serious about, why not join a local team? You’ll benefit from a regular team schedule and guidance from a coach. Whether it’s football, baseball or basketball, being a part of a team has the added joys of comradery and team work.

7 – Motivate with music

The best thing about listening to energetic music during workouts is that they’ll help get your energy level up and boost your workout speed and enthusiasm at the same time.

8 – Incorporate weight bearing and muscle strengthening exercises

The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises for maintaining bone density.

Make sure you pick an intensity level that is suitable for you. High intensity includes running, hiking, skipping and dancing. Low intensity is a safer alternative and includes walking and using the elliptical.   

9 – Reward yourself

Improved vitality and bone strength is the ultimate reward, but don’t be shy about rewarding yourself for making good progress. Share your achievements with friends and family. Treat yourself to a bit of dark chocolate or have a relaxing spa day.

If we exercise with the aim of strengthening our bones and balancing it with a healthy diet rich in nutrients, we’re going to be more motivated by the knowledge that we’re taking positive steps towards bone health. Exercising is ultimately a decision to treat your body well.

We want you to feel positively about exercise and the difference it can make to your bone health and general well being.

Have any tips of your own? Let us know in the comments below!