Eight tips to help you stick to a workout routine

It is general knowledge that exercise is good for the body and mind. However, being committed and dedicated to a workout routine — like going to the gym — can be quite difficult due to workload, busy schedules, social engagement and many more.

One actually needs to do more than just planning in one’s head how to hit the gym again after a long time. Remember, consistency is an important aspect of physical fitness. The more you work out, the easier it will become to achieve your fitness goals.

In view of this, here are tips to help stick to a workout routine.

• Consider and set fitness goals

First of all, what is your reason for deciding you want to start working out? What are you trying to achieve?

Are you trying to lose or gain weight? To become more physically fit? You need to set your goals.

However, these goals must be clear, realistic and measurable. Having clear and specific goals helps you stay focused, and motivated and also gauge your progress.

• Setup a workout routine

After knowing exactly what you want to gain from working out, you need to set up a workout routine or schedule.

In order to stick to your fitness journey, you need to create a personalised and consistent routine that fits your lifestyle and daily routine.

A workout routine where your day-to-day activities are put into consideration. By this, one activity won’t affect the other.

You’re more likely to develop a regular workout habit and stay consistent when you have a personalised routine.

• Start slow

If you are just starting your fitness journey, it is fine to start slowly and progress gradually.

Break your fitness goals into small steps in order to avoid injuries, mistakes and burnout. Start with exercises that you can manage then slightly increase to ones more challenging.

Also, to stick with your routine long-term, you need to have a good relationship with exercise. You need to set a fitness routine that you enjoy and look forward to.

• Have an accountability partner

Working out with a friend or joining a fitness class can make you more motivated and accountable.

You are even more likely to stick to your routine and accomplish your fitness goals when you work out with a friend.

Several studies have also found that people feel motivated to work out harder and longer when they do it with a friend.

• Track your progress

You can track your progress by using a fitness app or journal. Seeing how far you have gone in your fitness journey can make you highly motivated and also help you commit to your routine.

By tracking your progress, you can also notice what you’re doing well and what you need to improve on.

• Reward yourself

Celebrate your achievements along the way.

When you reach a milestone in your fitness journey, treat yourself to something you enjoy, like a healthy meal or a relaxing massage. Do not overdo though.

• Be flexible

Life can be unpredictable, so be flexible with your workout routine.

If you miss a workout, do not feel good, or encounter obstacles, do not be too hard on yourself, and don’t make it an excuse to take a long break from the workout.

Rather adapt to the circumstances, reschedule, and keep working out.

• Seek professional guidance

To stick to your fitness journey, consider consulting a fitness trainer or coach.

They can help provide you with personalised workouts, guidance, and expertise to ensure you’re on the right track and stay consistent, and committed.