Fitting in fitness is something most people struggle with on their nutrition journey. As a fitness instructor and nutritionist, I see this happen all the time. Currently, I am balancing grad school, work, and everyday life. I run a tight ship. My hours are odd, so time and schedules are crucial. Here are a few ways I am fitting in fitness.
Workout Clothes and Gear where I can see them. This isn't the most 'aesthetic' thing on the planet. My weights, yoga mat, and running shoes are visible. My spouse, is super great about this. My yoga mat and weights are rolled out every morning. I’m dressed and ready to go. This helps me remember to 'just do it'. I set out my workout clothes right along with my work clothes. No choices, easy access. I put on my clothes, grab my pre-workout, a snack and go.
Exercise Apps to keep me accountable. I'm a bit of an exercise fanatic. Burnalong is one of my favorites. This keeps my goals clear, and I always have a trainer basically in my pocket. Exercise apps offer workouts from 5 minutes to 45 minutes on varying scales of intensity.
Showing up - Most successful people will tell you this. Alarms don't help if you don't let your feet hit the floor. 90 percent is showing up. Fitness is a lifestyle for me; it's a part of my routine. I work out in the morning before starting to talk to my students and clients.
Resting when needed - A built-in rest day is a must for folks with a fitness lifestyle. My rest days tend to be Wednesdays. Why? I cannot resist the thrill of a cool sporting event on the weekends!
Team Rocket - No, not the evil Pokémon team. When my alarm goes off, I count down: 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. By 'lift-off', I'm moving and working out.
Just 5 minutes - If I only have 5 minutes for movement, I give myself 5 minutes for movement. Yoga, Pilates, or even a quick walk around my home.
I commit to my non-negotiables. Nourishment, education, hydration, and rest are non-negotiables for me. Most of my clients know I have been sober for close to 6 years. I decided to stop drinking one day. I had to stay committed. The challenging (and hilarious) thing about things like running a marathon, getting sober, or getting healthier is that you just do it. My mantra is 'I become what I do consistently'.