How to get into an exercise routine

I never looked forward to exercise growing up. I always saw it as a chore and even bothersome. My parents made sure to always take me out on a bike ride, a walk, the park to play soccer or some other form of physical activity to stay healthy and active as a little girl. When I became a young adult, I realized I still felt the same even though no one was forcing me to work out anymore. I knew something had to change and one day as I was scrolling through social media, I learned that it was ok to take it slow and build myself up to where I wanted to be. So, I decided to try new ways to exercise including new environments, sports, and types of exercises. But most importantly, I learned to enjoy the process itself and be ok with starting from the bottom knowing that consistency would lead me to where I wanted to be. Here are some tips to help you get back into exercising or to start exercising.   

1. 1.Start slow: Start with a short amount of exercise and build up as your body gets used to it along with how many times you do it per week. 

2. 2.Be realistic: Acknowledge what you do and what you do not like. Don’t do what the popular people are doing, learn what you like or what works best for you and enjoy the process.  

3. 3.Listen to your body: Pay attention to how your body feels and what it needs to recover successfully. Your body will only perform at its best if you treat it right whether it is diet or rest. 

4. 4.Be accountable: If you are on a set schedule or know that it has been a while since you last exercised, be responsible and get right back to it immediately. The longer you procrastinate, the harder it will be for your body to get back into shape. 

5. 5.Don’t be harsh on yourself: Try your very best and know that it is enough. Everyone has different body types and strengths, don’t compare yourself to others. As long as you know that you showed up and gave it your all, count it as total success!