So, you’ve been talking about getting fit and getting back to the gym, but all of 2021 went by and you didn’t make it. Or you may have started exercising, but the zeal fizzled as the year progressed and life became too busy.

Don’t be disheartened because you can get started or resume this year. 

Regular exercise helps to improve your health and reduces the risk of some diseases. Health checks, a nutritious diet, and physical activity all work together to ensure you stay in the best of health.

So, let’s begin with our exercise goals. Of course, the first and most critical step, is committing to begin.

The next one is maintaining momentum and interest and with that we’ve got you covered. Read on as we share a few tips that can get you started and keep you inspired over the next 12 months. 

Assign specific days for body parts. After deciding on the number of days, you’ll allocate to working out, use each day to focus on one particular body part. For example, begin your week working on your legs, then follow up with core exercises, and biceps the following day.

Focussing on separate areas of your body will help you track your growth and ensure your routine is comprehensive. You can work with a trainer to decide where to start and which exercises are suitable.

Alternate your workout hours. Some of us love an early morning workout and others after work but why not alternate your training times to morning and evening to stop your routine becoming a burden? The change can be monthly, or occur based on your other commitments.

If you’ve had a late night or need to have an earlier start, switch your workout time. It’s better to have a flexible schedule than to miss training altogether, and it will take care of any guilt you may feel.

Go for a walk or jog. There are times when you may crave scenery, and that’s the benefit of a walk or jog. Outdoor exercise helps to clear your mind as you’re working your body.

Schedule a brisk walk or jog into your routine to add some dynamism. You can even add a bit more excitement by walking or jogging backwards part of the way. Just make sure you’re in an area where your safety is guaranteed.

Engage in a sporting activity. When we think of exercise, we often think of heading to the gym, but engaging in football, basketball, tennis, or volleyball can be just as effective. Join a team and allocate one of your days for team matches or practices.

A swim is an excellent option for a full-body workout. Swimming engages your core, legs, arms and lungs.

Get a partner. Training with a partner helps make exercising more enjoyable. You can motivate each other, offer support for exercises, and you’re more likely to work harder. When choosing a partner, be sure it’s someone who shares your commitment to being fit and healthy. You’re both going to have off-days, but you want someone reliable.

Take a day off.  You’ve got to have a day to relax and let your muscles recover. Enjoy a morning of sleeping in, or an evening of lounging, then begin your week again.

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Practising a healthy lifestyle can be viewed as three-pronged.  More than how we look, we’ve got to examine how we feel and, even more so, assess and possibly adjust what we do. 

While many choose a workout routine that involves visits to the gym several days of the week, there are other options. Keep in mind that you may benefit from a hybrid schedule as you plan your workout routine. To break the monotony, you can mix gym workouts with outdoor activities like tennis, walking or swimming.

Visit the Guernsey Directory to find a gym near you.

Sources: Better Health Channel, Cosmopolitan and Healthline.