You want to be a fit person, right? That's why I'm sharing my own habits for keeping fit and staying healthy in the ongoing Habits of Fit People series. Here's one that works for me: Getting dressed in my workout clothes This is especially helpful on the days when I am just not feeling motivated to work out. I previously shared another similar tip: sleeping in your workout clothes. I still use that habit to this day—especially in the fall and winter months. But I don't always exercise in the morning, and if you don't either, well, that tip really isn't going to do much for you. A couple nights a week, when I do not teach any fitness classes, I need to find the motivation to work out on my own after I leave the office. Trust me, it is not always easy. Like many of you, I don't always want to exercise, especially after a long day at work. Sometimes, even when I have the best intentions, I often get distracted with other things: planning dinner, tending to the dog, running a quick errand, talking on the phone. So to help me stick to my evening workouts, I have to keep my workout on my mind—and my body. All I do is take the first step: I put on my workout clothes. So does it really make a difference? Once I am dressed for a workout, it's like my whole attitude changes and I no longer dread my upcoming fitness endeavor. Sometimes, going through the motions can give you the motivation to get started. It's just like my habit of committing to just 10 minutes: it's doable, and once you start, you're more likely to continue. The simple act of getting dressed and putting on those shoes is half the battle! It's a must-do before you can work out, but it's so easy to put off when you don't want to exercise. Once you do it, though, your body is likely to move into autopilot mode and start exercising. Like a dog that sees you putting on your sneakers and knows it's time for a walk, your body knows that once you're dressed, it's time to get moving! You can't tell me that you'd go through all the trouble of picking out your clothes, finding your socks, lacing up your shoes only to plop down on the couch and skip your workout—that is not happening when you follow through with this technique. Once you're dressed, you are ready for success! I know it may seem silly, but in my experience, it really does work. It's one of those small tricks that can have a big impact on your attitude—and your actions. Don't believe me? Next time you are finding yourself distracted and wanting to skip the gym, get dressed. Then start with just 10 minutes. I promise you, you'll do more than you thought possible, and you'll never regret it. Have you ever tried this technique? Do you agree that getting dressed can get you going in the right direction? |
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