Jan said “My biggest challenge is committing to daily exercise!”
Committing to daily exercise can be challenging for anyone, regardless of who you are. However, there are a few reasons why it might be particularly challenging for some women:
Finding time for exercise can be difficult when responsibilities are buying for your time.
Women may face societal pressure to prioritise caregiving and household duties over their own health and fitness.
Fear of judgment or feeling self-conscious during physical activity can be a deterrent.
Some women may lack support from those who are important to them. Without encouragement or accountability, it can be challenging to stay motivated.
We may face unique physical challenges that can impact our ability or desire to exercise daily.
We might perceive exercise as a time-consuming activity that requires a significant time commitment. This perception can make it harder to prioritise exercise among competing demands.
It's essential to recognise these challenges and find strategies to overcome them, such as scheduling exercise sessions, seeking social support, focusing on enjoyable activities, and practicing self-compassion. Additionally, emphasising the numerous physical and mental health benefits of regular exercise can help motivate women to prioritise their fitness despite these obstacles.
Here are some steps you can take to establish and maintain this habit:
Get clear on why you are exercising. Whether it's improving endurance, strength, flexibility, or overall health, having clear objectives will keep you focused and motivated.
Begin with manageable exercise sessions, especially if you're new to regular physical activity. Start with just a few minutes of exercise per day and gradually increase the duration and intensity as you build strength and stamina.
Find exercises or activities that you genuinely enjoy. Selecting activities that you find fun and engaging increases the likelihood that you'll stick with them long-term.
Treat your exercise sessions like appointments by scheduling them into your daily routine. Choose a consistent time of day that works best for you, whether it's in the morning, during lunch breaks, or in the evening, and make it a non-negotiable part of your schedule.
Consider finding a workout buddy or joining fitness classes or groups to help keep you accountable.
Keep track of your workouts and progress to stay motivated and celebrate your achievements.
Establish a system of rewards for reaching your exercise goals.
Understand that setbacks and obstacles are a natural part of the process. If you miss a workout or encounter challenges, be kind to yourself and avoid self-criticism. Instead, focus on getting back on track and maintaining consistency over the long term.
By implementing these strategies and staying committed to your fitness goals, you can establish a daily habit of exercising that enhances your physical and mental well-being.