How to Become an Exercise Addict

How to Become an Exercise Addict

 

 

Give it six weeks

Theres an urban legend that it takes 21 days for something to become a habit, but theres little evidence to back up this claim. For exercise, its probably more like six weeks, says Rebecca Woll, manager of personal training at Equinox in New York City. "This is when you start to see aesthetic changes in your body," she explains. "Once you see these changes you wont want to go back to the old you!" This is also about the time youll start to notice the difference in how you feel if you miss a day or two of exercise, and youll start to appreciate the natural high that comes after a good workout.

 

Find your niche

So you tried spinning and you hated it, or you hurt yourself on your first day of CrossFit. That doesnt mean that all forms of fitness arent for you—so get back out there and try a different one. "Find something that makes you tune out and gives you a release from your daily grind," says Woll—whether that means focusing on the ground ahead of you on a trail run, or following the instructor in a Zumba class. "Youll know you found it when you look at the clock and an hour flashes by without you noticing." Holland agrees: "I always tell my clients, I dont exercise," he says. "Ill go for a run or go to the gym, but I dont think of it as exercise because that suddenly gives it a negative connotation."

 

Hire a trainer

Whether youre a total newcomer to the fitness scene or you just need a little motivation and guidance, a personal trainer can help you set goals and develop a plan to make them happen. "People think they cant afford it, but they dont realise that even just one or two sessions with a trainer can be so beneficial," says Holland. "Investing just one or two hundred bucks can go a long way." Plus, a good trainer will also hold you accountable and will motivate you to work your hardest, Holland adds. "Its all about positive reinforcement and being there for the client when they need it."

 

Join a club

Working out is more fun with friends—and its a lot harder to bail on when youve got other people relying on you. "I think thats why groups like CrossFit and Weight Watchers are so successful," says Holland. "It shows the value of the support system, which should be an integral part of any workout plan." Your exercise club could be an entire gym full of people, a regular fitness class where everyone knows your name, or just one exercise buddy who makes sure youre out of bed to meet her for your morning walks. Feeling ambitious? Start a fitness or weight-loss contest with your friends or coworkers, suggests Woll. "A little healthy competition always gets you motivated!"

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