Two Things You Must Do For Your Exercise Habit to Stick
Have you ever tried to start an exercise program only to go a few times, even a few weeks, but then fall off the wagon? You get out of the routine and just stop going or doing the thing? You must do these 2 things before an exercise habit will ever stick.
- Embrace your body.
- Find what you like to do.
Embrace your body.
Be thankful for your unique body. You have been carefully crafted. You were created with love and are loved just as you are.
It’s sad to think that the reason women are reluctant to move and exercise is because they just don’t like their bodies.
I know that doesn’t seem to make sense. I mean, if I don’t like my body shouldn’t I do something to change it? Often that would start with exercise. But many women are self-conscious and embarrassed. They don’t want to go to a gym, or they worry about what people think if they see them out walking or running. This and that jiggles and bounces. (Believe me, I get it!)
But when we invite the Lord into this physical activity of exercise, we can approach it differently. We start to see ourselves for what we truly are: God’s unique creation. We have been fearfully and wonderfully made. He’s entrusted to us legs that carry us around and arms that can lift heavy things. Moving them is part of showing our gratitude and appreciation for them.
You may never stand in front of a mirror without your clothes on and admire what you see. I do not have a full length mirror in my bedroom or my bathroom because I don’t want to get distracted by my rolls and bulges. I don’t have time for that negativity! 😆 My body is good because it is the vessel that allows me to run and walk and lift things and move about. It also is the vessel that allows me to love and serve my family, help my friends, volunteer, and write books among so many other things.
All bodies are good and that includes yours.
The second thing that must happen before you can develop a consistent exercise routine is you finding what you like to do.
I can’t tell you how many times have I heard, “I just don’t like to run.” People know that I’m a runner and must think that I believe all people should run. And that’s just not true.
Running is what I like to do. But what do you like to do? You’ll not stick with a workout program or an exercise if you don’t like it.
You may not like to run, but do you like to walk?
Do you like to dance? Find a zumba class or turn on your music and get moving!
Are your stress levels at an all time high? Try a yoga class.
Like to walk but can’t get outside as often as you’d like? Try these Walk at Home videos.
I firmly believe that there’s something for everyone. Have you found your thing? If you’re struggling to find it, reach out to me. Together we’ll get you moving more!
Action Step(s!): Be grateful for your body. Identify something that your body does for you, and thank God for it. Exercise in a way that you enjoy. If you’re not sure, gather some courage and try something new.
Cheering you on!
“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.” Psalm 150:6 (NIV)
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