The benefits of exercise are clear, but that doesn’t make it any easier to get into an exercise routine. If you’re busy with work and family, it can be difficult to motivate yourself to do anything other than sitting down when you get a spare five minutes.

However, that often means you miss out on all the benefits that exercise has to offer. If you know exercise is good for you and you’re wondering how to make exercise a habit, look at some of these helpful tips.

Give It Four Weeks

There’s no definitive amount of time that will help you create a habit, but experts say that four weeks is long enough for the human mind to build a long-lasting routine. Like any other habit, it takes repetition for it to sink in.

Once you’ve set a routine for yourself and follow it each day for four weeks, it will become automatic. Your body will begin to crave daily exercise and you’ll begin to see why it’s so beneficial for you.

Trick Your Mind

When you’re not used to exercising, your mind can associate it with something negative. After all, your allotted exercise time may be taking you away from time you usually use to relax. You can trick your mind by combining exercise with something you enjoy.

For example, why not practice Pilates while watching an episode of your favorite TV show? Why not reward yourself with a long, hot bubble bath once you finish? Making a connection with something positive will help you create a healthy habit.

Set Reachable Goals

There’s a certain undeniable satisfaction in reaching goals. Exercise already releases endorphins that allow the mind and body to feel good, so reaching a goal is just a bonus. That being said, the satisfaction of reaching a goal you’ve set for yourself will increase your motivation.

However, you should never set your goals too high. Make sure your goals are achievable and don’t be too hard on yourself if you don’t succeed.

Stay Flexible

No, that doesn’t mean physically. Exercise every day can be hard work and not every day will go as planned. Perhaps something will come up at home that stops you from visiting the gym or you may feel unwell one day. Life can be chaotic, and you won’t be able to plan for everything.

Keeping some flexibility in your routine will allow you to work out every day by making some adjustments. For example, if you can’t squeeze in a morning workout, you may be able to work out during your lunch break instead.

How to Make Exercise a Habit The Fun Way

Many people ponder over how to make exercise a habit and the truth is, it’s about making it enjoyable. Head to an exercise class with a friend and take part in an exercise that boosts your mood. Here’s some great advice on choosing the best women’s exercise club when you’re ready to start an exercise habit. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact NW Women’s Fitness Club.