8 Great Exercise Tips

By Editorial Staff

1. Have a Plan. Consistent exercise requires focus, and focus requires a plan. Outline your workouts by day, week and month so when you hit the gym, you know just what to do.
   


2. Don't Overdo It. In the real world, you're not competing on "The Biggest Loser." Work out for five hours a day and you'll end up burned out, injured or both. Try 45 minutes, 3-4 times a week.
   


3. Fight Temptation. We're talking about the inevitable temptation to skip a workout. When you're having a "bad day," stay strong and get to the gym. Skip out and you'll regret it; make it happen and you'll feel great afterward.
   


4. Schedule Breaks. Many people are afraid to stop working out once they start, but you need time to refresh yourself and allow your body to do the same. Schedule a consistent break (3-4 days or an entire week) every few months and then start right up again.
   


5. Be Creative. Your body and mind get bored after a certain amount of time doing the same thing. Mix things up every so often, whether it's trying a few new exercises, changing the time of day you work out, or even changing up the setting (e.g., running outside versus on the treadmill).
   


6. Recruit Support. When it comes to exercise, some people can fly solo, and that's great; but for others, they need a friend or spouse to help keep them on track. If you can't do it alone, don't be afraid to ask for help.
   


7. Less Is More. Unless your goal is to look like a body-builder, you can put the heavy weights down. Body-weight, resistance bands and balls, and other basic equipment can get the job done just fine.
   


8. Stay Positive. This is the most difficult tip to stay true to, but it's also the most important. Every day isn't sunshine and roses; that's true in life and in your exercise routine. Some days or weeks, you won't feel as if you're making any progress. That's the time to stay positive, fight through it and remember why you decided to start exercising in the first place.