GOOD STUFF

Way

How to get started with exercise to have more energy, in three simple steps.

The first step is to choose your exercise, as described above

The very important second step is to schedule this time into your day Give it the same priority as an appointment or meeting

The third step is to actually do it. When I started with exercise, I walked every day for 15 minutes at the same scheduled time. A big reason for this is so that I could establish it as a habit. I knew from past experience that if I skipped one day, it could easily turn into two or more and I’d be off track yet again

Your initial exercise plan that incorporates these three steps might be: This week I will walk the dog for 15 minutes each day at 7:00 a m It can be helpful to make these plans short-term (week to week) rather than open-ended, so you can adjust as needed

To progress, in a coming week you could plan to walk for 20 minutes instead of 15, or to walk faster You get the idea. But even if you never do more, you ’ re still ahead of the game and benefitting yourself by exercising each day, whatever the amount.

Focus on creating the habit

A mistake people make is to focus mainly on the goal and the outcome they want, rather than on creating the habit that will get them there Without the habit and the schedule, exercise becomes an option rather than a priority in your busy day And we both know what happens then Exercise doesn’t get done

That’s one reason why I’m a fan of morning workouts I do it first thing, and then it’s done It’s not hanging over my head the rest of the day, gnawing at me that I need to do it as the day gets busier and I get more tired Exercise gives me energy to get through my day and be the best me I can be

Let’s face it, there will be days you wake up and don’t feel like exercising This is normal Do it anyway, even if it’s just a small amount. Once you get going, you’ll feel better, and you’ll be glad you did.

If you ’ re struggling on your own, enlist the help of a certified personal trainer for assistance and ongoing support

Remember, it’s the movement that helps us feel more alert and energized, not the other way around You’re sitting around waiting for the energy to exercise, when actually it’s exercise that will give you the energy you want

If you are experiencing persistent fatigue or lack of energy, be sure to see your health care provider for an evaluation Thyroid issues, heart disease, sleep apnea, diabetes, hormonal unbalances, depression, nutritional deficiencies and other health conditions can also cause these symptoms, so it’s a good idea to get checked out.

The information provided in this material has been consolidated for your convenience from various health resources. The information should not be viewed as medical advice from Blue Cross NC If you have any questions concerning your medical condition or any drugs, treatment plans or new symptoms, consult your health care provider.