By James Andrews, Move Fitness and Dance

This is not meant to be another one of those quick fixes you read while in line at the grocery store, but proven methods to increase your likelihood of exercising. In a society that is becoming more and more aware the necessity of exercise, why is it that only 23% of the population meets the recommended exercise standard of 30 minutes each day. If you are unable to spend an hour in the gym, that is okay, however you still need to spend 30 minutes daily performing moderate physical activity that involves moving your whole body.

Following the tips below will assist you in reaching that target. Some of these you have possibly heard before, however they are all good.

1. Have a plan. Work smart and hard, not long. If you plan what you are going to do before you start you will limit your idle time.
2. Set short and long term goals. A short term goal can be, I will exercise three time this week or do 50 pushups today. A long term goal can be, I will lose 15 pounds this summer or lower my blood pressure. These goals are like carrots on a stick, they can keep you going when the going gets tough.
3. Eat. The body needs fuel to perform. Food is fuel. However do not overdue it.
4. Find activities that you enjoy. Exercise does not have to be grinding and unpleasant. i.e. playing basketball, kickboxing, fencing, walking in the park…
5. Schedule your workouts and stick to them. Be Consistent. Just like a business meeting or a date, if you write it down, and think of it as a mandatory encounter at a specific time you are more likely to get it done. Do not get in to the I will do it later habit, you would not say the same to your boss.
6. Stay away from the “All or Nothing Syndrome”. Just because you were not able to totally fulfill your plan, by not completing or even beginning your exercise routing for the day, this does not mean that you should give up entirely. Tomorrow is a day away and the sun will come out. It is a new opportunity to pick up where you left off. If you are injured and or have another nagging situation that totally forbids you from exercising for a period, upon healing or cessation of the pertinent drama, recommence. Life is full of interruptions, but you have got to keep on moving.
7. Find your inspiration. It might be that your wife, boyfriend or whatever is looking better these days, and you want to keep up, it could be that vacation that you are going on and you want the pictures of it to be tight, it might be that you generally want to be healthier. Whatever the source, tap into all of your inspirations to get you going on those days it is difficult to get through.
8. This is an opportunity for you to shop, or have someone shop for you. Always have the necessary attire, sneakers, your choice of top and bottom. Sometimes spontaneous opportunities to exercise may arise. Do not let your inadequate wardrobe prevent you from working out.
9. Be accountable to your goals. Hire a trainer or find a friend who has similar physical interests and is responsible. Individuals who exercise with someone are 5 times more likely to continue exercise than individuals who workout alone.
10. Try working out at different times of the day, and monitor what time your energy level is highest and at which time you are more able to commit to. Some like to exercise first thing in the morning, others like late nights. Do what is best for you.

Remember to first consult a doctor prior to starting any exercise program. Good luck and tighten up.

About James Andrews

James Andrews, a native of East Orange, NJ is the founder, of Move Fitness and Dance, a Gilbert, AZ based fitness consulting company. He has successfully worked with individuals and organizations for nine years, both privately and through numerous fitness facilities. He holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia and a graduate degree from Howard University. James has is certified by The American Council on Exercise, APEX, and the National Academy of Sports Medicine as a personal trainer and a sports fitness specialist. James, a former athlete, specializes in athletic and functional performance. James works with numerous clients throughout the East Valley and is currently working on building an athletic and dance training center. He does public speaking engagements and writes regularly for various blogs including movefitness.wordpress.com. Contact James with any questions or comments at james@movefitnessanddance.com or www.movefitnessanddance.com.