How to get into the habit of working out

By: Ahmed Khan, Mauricio Cecena, Alfred Bokea, Muskaan Dave

In today's fast-paced world, juggling work, studies, and personal commitments can often leave little room for fitness and exercise. However, neglecting our physical health can have long-term consequences on our overall well-being. The good news is that incorporating athletic training into a busy schedule is not only achievable but also incredibly rewarding. Exercise can improve mental health, cardiovascular function, and energy levels. It can also reduce stress, boost self-confidence, and enhance overall productivity. Taking that first step can be hard, but once you start, you'll find yourself energized, focused, and ready to conquer the world! 

There are countless ways to start! Buying a gym membership or commuting regularly to a gym may not be accessible to everyone, but there are training methods that anyone can do without equipment or with minimal investment. 

Calisthenics is a type of exercise in which you use only your own body weight, rather than equipment. There are tons of online resources, including various YouTube videos and channels that can help anyone at any level master calisthenics training. Using videos as a guide can be crucial to not only finding out what kind of exercise you like to do, but also to learn the correct form and prevent injury. It’s a good idea to educate yourself on all of the different types of activities available to you so that you create a lifestyle that is not only healthy, but enjoyable too!

Running, swimming, and hiking are also great options for anyone who wants to start moving their body, but might be limited by experience, finances, or access to equipment. Signing up for local charity runs, finding a nearby trail, or taking classes at a community centre can serve as motivation to help you show up and stay consistent, while enjoying a new environment and meeting new people. It’s important to remember that you can change your mind and try new activities whenever you want until you find what works for you. Don’t be afraid to experience new things and keep your fitness journey interesting!

Here are some more tips from our Student Life Leads at the SSU:

1. Start small!

Getting started with an organized routine or lifting weights at the gym can be challenging. Something you can do is set realistic, achievable goals and make tiny adjustments to your daily routine to boost your activity level. Get your 10,000 steps in, increase your water intake, sign up for group sessions, get eight hours of sleep, or even join a recreational sport!

2. Get a workout buddy.

Having a workout buddy can help keep you accountable and consistent with your workout. You can also have someone to share new experiences with, especially if you’re hesitant to try something on your own. And on your hardest days when you don’t feel like working out, you bet your workout buddy will drag you to the gym! Plus, it’s way more fun!

3. Build habits over time. 

This might be surprising, but the most important aspect of fitness is mental. You have to train yourself into showing up regularly and staying consistent. Be patient. Progress takes time and this is a long-term investment. There is no magic program to help you achieve goals in a single day! Develop discipline by making small changes and building new, healthy habits over time.

4. Find what works for you.

There’s no “one size fits all” when it comes to fitness. Not everyone needs to lift weights in order to get into shape, some people enjoy running, yoga, Pilates, or even martial arts. Try different things that align with your goals, pick what works for you and your lifestyle, and enjoy doing it.

5. Don’t give up!

Keep showing up, keep learning, and keep trying new things. Your fitness journey can help you discover things about yourself and push you further past boundaries than you might have believed you were capable of!

So, whether you lace up your sneakers for a hike, dive in the water for a swim, or dance your heart out in a group class—however you choose to move—your mind and body will thank you for it!

Did you know that the HMC Student Centre has brand-new Athletic facilities that all Sheridan students can use?
Take a look at our spaces and discover everything we have to offer!