A healthy lifestyle isn’t built in a day. Here are five benefits of consistency that’ll kick-start your fitness journey.
by Catherine Santino
If you’ve ever heard the saying, “Living a healthy lifestyle is a marathon, not a sprint,” it’s for good reason! It takes time to cultivate a routine that works for you, and once you do, it will likely become second nature. You won’t remember a time before your regular gym sessions or healthy breakfasts! And you won’t want to.
It’s also important to remember that no routine looks the same, nor should it. Depending on your health, age, time constraints, and many other factors, a healthy lifestyle and sustainable routine can mean a lot of different things. Once you find yours — hopefully, with the guidance of a medical professional — there will be a ton of reasons you’ll want to stick with it.
Here are five benefits of consistency that’ll kick-start your journey.
1. YOU’LL AVOID BURNOUT
It’s great to challenge yourself in the gym, but if you push too hard at the beginning, you’ll likely run out of steam. Instead, finding a consistent workout routine that incorporates balance (and ample recovery time) will keep you motivated day after day.
Don’t know where to start in the gym? Try some basic shoulder and arm exercises, as well as treadmill workouts and this beginner lower body routine.
2. YOU’LL ACTUALLY SEE (AND FEEL) RESULTS
Committing to regular exercise is the surest way to strengthen your body and see real results — especially in the way you feel! According to theCenters for Disease Control and Prevention, consistent exercise can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, strengthen your bones and muscles, and even improve your mental health.
3. YOU’LL FEEL MORE ORGANIZED
If you’re able to regulate your fitness routine, chances are you’ll start to feel more motivated in other areas of your life as well. While you’re penciling in your gym time, go ahead and schedule that doctor appointment you’ve been putting off. A healthy lifestyle is about more than fitness and nutrition — it’s about taking care of yourself in every way.
4. YOU’LL BOOST YOUR CONFIDENCE
Not only will you be proud of the changes in your body, you’ll feel proud of the commitment you’ve made to your health and yourself! You deserve to be the best version of yourself, and a healthy lifestyle will reinforce this sentiment.
5. YOU’LL HAVE ROOM TO GROW AND CHALLENGE YOURSELF
Once you’ve built a stable routine for yourself, you’ll be able to tackle new feats at the gym. Consider trying a 30-day challenge or signing up for atraining session that introduces you to new exercise equipment.
Safety is, of course, your top priority — but don’t be afraid to challenge yourself! As always, please consult with a physician prior to beginning any exercise program. See full medical disclaimer here.