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Writer's pictureSusie Csorsz Brown

Three elements: Get your goals!

Three necessary elements to embrace and maintain a change to your movement schedule.  I would argue that these three elements are necessary for most change to occur, but in particular today I am going to refer to creating and maintaining an exercise routine.



Motivation - in order for change to happen, you have to want to see it happen.  In order for it to stick, it has to be moving towards something positive and good rather than away from something negative.  I mean, sure, we all want more positive in our lives, but specifically when it comes to exercise, you are not focusing on doing less negative behaviors (trying to sit and lounge less) but rather doing more positive behaviors more often (e.g. going for a walk every afternoon, or standing while working for 30 minutes).  So the key is to focus on the doing of positive behaviors (moving towards the good) rather than moving away from the bad.  Why?  Humans are motivated by positive behaviors.  We LIKE doing more positive and good, especially if we ourselves reap the benefits.


Convenience - in order for change to stick, it has to be convenient.  If you have to drive across town to get to your gym, it is not going to work out.  Similarly, if you have only a few windows of opportunity to do the thing (meet your coach, use the equipment, get to the gym), there is a smaller chance of that element sticking.  Convenience is key: it has to be easily-accessible, without inconveniencing you time and money, and it will be much more likely to stick.


Simple - if you are trying to adopt a 27-step routine, chances are you are not going to be able to stick with it.  Easy to follow steps, easy to follow instructions, easy to remember guidelines ... this is how an element gets adopted into your routine.  


These three factors are important for this element to become part of your routine, especially if it is a new routine.  Set yourself up with greater chances of success by incorporating these into your planned week and then get ready to succeed with your fitness goals!


Other bonus elements:

Add a social element - make it a joint goal with a friend or a family member. You can give each other positive feedback and positive encouragement to stick with it.


Hire a coach to teach you about the equipment - I get it, gyms and the equipment you find there can feel intimidating, especially if you are new to the gym scene. Hire an expert, and let them teach you what works well to help you focus on your fitness goals. Just be mindful that they aren't there to sell you supplements and bonus add-on packages that you don't need or are not ready for.

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