(BPT) - If you find it hard to get yourself into the fitness mindset - and fear that the resolution season ended in January - keep in mind it's never too late to begin a routine focused on your health and wellness. But if you need the motivation to re-commit, here are some reasons why it can be even easier to get yourself moving again.
You can exercise at an affordable cost
While many gym memberships have skyrocketed in recent years, the good news is that some gyms are incredibly affordable and flexible. For example, at Planet Fitness, you can access high-quality fitness equipment at an affordable monthly cost. Plus with the PF Black Card®, you can get access to additional amenities such as the ability to bring a guest every day at no additional charge, and access to all 2,500+ Planet Fitness locations.
Starting small is STILL starting
For many people, it's easy to fall into the all-or-nothing trap: If you can't work out for at least an hour every single day of the year, why do anything at all?
If this sounds familiar to you, it's important to re-evaluate and learn that any amount of activity can help boost your mood and support your overall well-being. Starting small, without imposing goals that are impossible to attain, is the best way to build your exercise habits - and your confidence.
Beginning with a simple goal like moving for 10-20 minutes every other day, and gradually increasing every few weeks, can be a great place to start. Taking it slow and steady will help build the foundation and help mitigate burnout.
Non-intimidating fitness exists
While it's understandable to feel a little self-conscious at first, you can overcome your worries by exercising at a gym that has a non-intimidating atmosphere to help calm any nerves.
For example, Planet Fitness offers a Judgement Free Zone® so members feel comfortable working out, no matter their fitness level. In addition, all memberships come with free fitness training with PE@PF, where certified fitness trainers can show you around the gym and provide instruction on their huge selection of cardio and strength machines to help build your confidence.
Keep it fun and social
Another way to help you stay motivated in keeping up your fitness routine is by amping up the fun - and realizing that you don't have to do it alone. By making friends at your gym - or encouraging a friend to join you - you can use the workout time to get active together.
Bringing a guest or finding other gym-goers with the same goals can help increase the fun factor so that staying fit no longer feels like a chore, but something you look forward to every week.
Switch it up
Another recognizable motivation killer for fitness is monotony. Instead of doing the same exact routine every time, at the same time of day, keep things lively by varying your workout or trying new equipment, and experiment with working out at different times of day. What is fun or convenient for you may be different than you expected - and it may vary from one week to another.
Keep physical activity fun through variety like listening to a different artist or playlist, working on a different muscle group, or exploring that section of the gym you've never ventured to.
Feeling motivated to start your new fitness routine? Start by finding a convenient gym location near you - and joining online at PlanetFitness.com.
