Execute!

If you have looked at the forecast for this week, you know it's not great. After a long winter, we are still stuck in the dreariness of early Spring. Weather like this can affect our motivation and make it harder to follow healthy habits. If that sounds like you, here are a few strategies that will help keep you on the right track:

Reduce Friction: When time is short, motivation is low, or you're overwhelmed, making completing your healthy habits as easy as possible is essential. Have gym clothes laid out the night before. Prep several days of food, even dinners, on Sunday, so the easier option is a healthy one. Also, blocking off your schedule for exercise time will make it easier for you to execute.

Add Accountability. Adding a layer of accountability to any healthy habit is a powerful tool for making better choices. Tell a friend you plan to attend an early morning exercise class. Ask your significant other for help managing schedules so you have enough time to exercise or prep food. Make a plan to get to bed at the same time each night and challenge someone close to you to do the same!

Choose a manageable next step. If you feel hesitant, consider what is making the activity difficult. Discomfort, low energy, past experiences, and a demanding schedule deserve different responses. Your next step might be a smaller version of the plan, time to rest, or a conversation with your coach. You can choose an appropriate challenge without dismissing your concerns.

Utilize one or more of these strategies to keep making progress toward your health and fitness goals this week. Start with what fits your energy and circumstances. Asking for support or adjusting the plan can be a useful step forward.

Take one idea from this article into the week ahead. Use the Real-Life Fitness Week Builder to explore a realistic training week and backup options. If one activity window is your starting point, write that into your calendar and choose a backup that fits.