This week, we'll be focusing on Building A Sustainable Routine that allows you to integrate movement into your schedule, even during busy periods. Life can get hectic, but by prioritizing movement and finding ways to make it a regular part of your day, you can improve your overall health and well-being.

Why Is A Sustainable Routine Important?

  1. Consistency: A routine helps you stay consistent, which is crucial for seeing progress and reaping the benefits of exercise. It also helps establish a habit, making it easier to maintain over time.

  2. Accountability: Having a routine can help hold you accountable to yourself and your goals. When you have a set schedule, you're more likely to stick to it and less likely to make excuses.

  3. Adaptability: A sustainable routine is flexible and can adapt to changes in your life. This allows you to maintain your progress even when things get busy or unexpected events occur.

  4. Longevity: By building a routine that you enjoy and can maintain, you're more likely to stick with it for the long haul, leading to better overall health and well-being.

Incorporating A Sustainable Routine Into Your Life

Become a movement
detective

  • What time of day are you most likely to be active? Are you an indoor or outdoor person? What activities do you enjoy? 

    • Choose activities that you genuinely enjoy and look forward to. This could be anything from yoga and dance to hiking and weightlifting. Experiment with different activities to find what works best for you.

  • Look for existing opportunities to move more – stairs instead of elevators, walking during lunch breaks, active hobbies.

  • Do you have access to gyms, parks, or online fitness platforms? What equipment do you have at home?

  • Start by setting SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound). Start small and gradually increase your intensity or duration. This could be anything from walking 30 minutes a day to completing a full-body workout three times a week. Write down your goals and track your progress to stay motivated.

  • Treat them like important appointments and block time in your calendar, using reminders and alarms. You can do a quick yoga session or bodyweight workout before breakfast, take a brisk walk or join a fitness class near your workplace during lunch, or do some stretches before bed. Consistency is key, so try to stick to your schedule as much as possible.

  • For convenience, you can explore bodyweight exercises, short HIIT routines, or even try out an active commute, walking, biking, or taking the stairs whenever possible. 

  • Break down workouts into smaller, achievable chunks throughout the day, incorporating movement into daily activities. For example, you cando 10 squats while waiting for coffee, 5 push-ups during TV commercials, or intentionally park farther away from your destination when running errands.

Craft your personalized movement plan

Tips for Success

  • Mix It Up: To keep things interesting, mix up your routine with different types of activities. This not only keeps boredom at bay but also ensures you're working different muscle groups and staying balanced. Try new classes, sports, or outdoor activities to keep things fresh.

  • Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body feels and adjust your routine accordingly. If you're feeling tired or sore, it's okay to take a rest day or do a lighter workout. Rest and recovery are important parts of a sustainable routine.

  • Plan for flexibility: Life happens! Have backup plans for busy days, like shorter workouts or active commutes instead of gym sessions.

Remember: Focus on progress, not perfection. Celebrate small wins and focus on making movement a regular part of your life, rather than an occasional burden. Don't push yourself too hard, especially when you're busy. Take rest days and prioritize recovery. Keep it fun by choosing activities you enjoy, experiment with different styles, and find what motivates you.