Let’s face it; you’re either the type of person who likes to exercise, or you’re not. If you’re the type of person that doesn’t enjoy exercising, do you ever say to yourself, “Well, I wish I was interested in exercising, but…”? Well, it’s time to conquer our fears and become the type of person who actually enjoys working out.
Think about how good you’ll feel
Being in shape doesn’t just mean “looking good,” but it’s also about feeling good! There are so many benefits to exercising. You’ll sleep better, you’ll have more energy and you’ll get the common cold less often!
Set goals
Goals are important to have, but start off small. You don’t want to rush into it. Start by exercising about 15-20 minutes every day. That way, your body and mind will slowly get used to exercising and won’t be shocked. Those 15-20 minutes can be taking the stairs instead of the elevator, walking those few extra blocks instead of taking a cab or the subway or walking your dog a few extra blocks. Once you work your way into it, you can up the time to about 30 minutes. Starting off with small goals will keep your end goals more realistic.
Who needs the gym?
Maybe the gym isn’t for you – you don’t feel a connection to running on a treadmill facing a wall, or sitting on a stationary bike not going anywhere. Try going for a run outside! The scenery will keep you interested and you might actually enjoy yourself. Or, try taking an exercise class! Sometimes a little instruction and motivation is all you need.
Get a workout buddy
Friends who work out together motivate each other. If you have a workout buddy, you’re more likely to keep going to the gym because you will feel like you have an obligation to someone and you don’t want to let them down. You and your friend can push each other, and you’ll have someone to talk to and to motivate you!
Embrace the soreness
Of course, if you’re not used to exercising, your body will be a little shocked and you will get sore. Don’t let the soreness slow you down. When you’re sore, the best thing to do is keep moving. Turn the soreness into something good; think to yourself, “Well I kicked so much butt yesterday with my awesome workout that my body is just a little tired, I should keep going.” Just remember to stretch everyday!
There are little things you can do to become the kind of person who enjoys working out. Reward yourself for working out five days in a row. Download a fitness app with workouts you can do from your dorm room. Have friends to work out with. Don’t think of exercise as something you have to do, think of it as something you want to do.