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5 Ideas for Excuse-Proof Fitness

Isn't it ironic that the moment you decide to exercise, something always comes up? Daily distractions can easily get in the way of moving. See how you can turn your downtime into up time by incorporating these five ideas to make fitness an excuse-proof part of your daily routine.



1. Create a Fitness Calendar. Choose activities that can be easily slotted into your day, organize your time, and create a weekly or monthly calendar of planned exercise activities. Try for at least 30 minutes per day. This written plan will help hold you accountable, while also allowing you to track how much physical activity you're getting into your daily routine.



2. Make Exercise Rewarding. Give yourself a non-food treat for completing a week’s worth of scheduled fitness activities. Whether it’s buying yourself flowers, taking an aromatic soak, or catching up with a friend for a food-free night out, incentivizing yourself to stay on track will help encourage future good behavior habits.



3. Buy New Workout Clothes. New fitness clothing will make you feel better about yourself and help positively motivate you. Shop for well-designed, flattering, and supportive gym clothes. Breathable, sweat-wicking materials will help keep you cool and dry. Also, keep your yoga pants, sports bras, sweatbands and gym shoes in a special spot so you can grab and go without delay. Consider leaving your packed gym bag by the door as a reminder that an exercise session is approaching.



4. Get Everyone on Board. Tell family and friends when and where you plan to exercise. This way you won't get any unwelcome interruptions, and they may also help support you with motivational dips. If you need someone to watch the kids, make sure you arrange this in advance; don't rely on last-minute favors. If you struggle to get going, have a family member or friend call you to ensure you’re not sitting on the sofa. Or, make plans to join an aerobics class or go for a weekly walk with a friend so you’re committed to maintaining this scheduled fitness activity.



5. Avoid danger zones. Numerous things can distract even the most dedicated of exercisers: your favorite TV show, the lure of a day off with friends, or a neighbor popping in for an impromptu chat. Learn to recognize your "danger zones" and take steps to circumvent them. Also, as soon as you get back from exercising, be sure to wash your dirty workout clothes. Nothing is guaranteed to put you off exercising more than rummaging around the dirty clothes basket for the least-funky pair of smelling gym socks!



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