10 Exercise Tips

Whether you’re looking for motivation to start exercising, or are interested in changing up your current routine, here are 10 tips for making exercise a daily habit

1. Piece your workout together.

You don’t need to get all your exercise at one time. Ten minutes morning, noon, and night can give much of the same benefit as 30 minutes all at once.

2. Exercise with a friend.

Being active with a friend not only makes working out more fun, but it also keeps you accountable and motivated.

3. Keep it brisk.

If you're looking to control your weight, try walking briskly instead of at a leisurely pace. But what exactly is considered "brisk?" Walk as though you are meeting someone for lunch and you are running a little late.

4. Move your feet before you eat.

Eat lunch after you've moved your feet. go for a walk or to the gym with some coworkers, and have lunch afterward.

5. Try a pedometer.

If you're looking for a cheap way to get yourself moving, buy a pedometer. You should aim to walk 10,000 steps every day.

6. Turn off the TV, computer, and smart phone.

Don't just sit there like a sloth; move around! Getting up and being active is great way to kill two birds with one stone. Not only will you stay in shape, but your home will be clean as well. Studies have shown that too much screen time can lead to obesity and other health problems, so it's important to take a break from technology every once in awhile.

7. Turn sit time into fit time.

Use previously inactive time to your advantage and improve your fitness. Try combining cardiovascular exercise with something you would ordinarily do sitting down, such as simple exercises while watching TV, or set a reminder at work to get up and walk around for a few minutes every hour.

8. Sign up for a class.

Finding a workout class that interests you is a great way to learn about a new activity, and commit to it long-term. Structured classes offered at gyms, community centers, or studios can be especially helpful when getting started with something new.

9. Plan exercise into your day.

Incorporate some physical activity into your day by setting aside a time slot for it in your schedule.

9. Reward yourself.

Give yourself a pat on the back. After you hit small targets, give yourself a nice reward. It can be helpful to aim for something like participating in a walk-for-charity or running event—this way, you'll stay motivated.