This is the Time

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Originally uploaded by mikebaird

It is a new year and I am sure we all have a new attitude. You want to save more money, eat healthier, and start (re-start) exercising. So why are you still sitting around making plans? You have to get out and make it happen. This is one of the prime seasons where gyms are making a killin' on new memberships. Sales are everywhere.

You feel your commitment and how this year is going to be different... but you still haven't made the move. Why not? Even if you do take the tour, put money down, and then commit to the gym (which are great first steps)- now you have to follow through. Problem? Don't let it be.

One way to resolve this issue is to get a friend to commit to your new workout regime. Doing it alone, especially if you're just starting out, doesn't always cut it. Believe me, I've been there. I joined a gym a number of years ago, and I would only go when I could bring someone using a free pass. Once those were no longer offered, I stopped showing up. A few years later, I joined another gym. This time I was able to convince my new bride to join with me, and then a family friend. So I had two people. I have been dedicated to the gym and to working out religiously ever since. Even if we don't make it to the gym, we may go out running, do some home workouts, etc. But since this new habit was formed, I am able to comfortably workout alone. This morning I did an at-home workout by myself with Exercise TV.

Secondly, location. If you are joining a gym, make sure it is convenient to get to. Also, if you have decided to do workouts at the park or at a friend's house... or even at home, make sure that you will not be discouraged by the commute. You may hear people say, dedication is everything. "If you're dedicated then you'll go no matter how far it is." But remember, you may not be dedicated yet. First you have to be comfortable and then it can become routine. And that will lead to dedication. It takes about 3 months to form a new habit. So don't worry about dedication your first day. Just get comfortable.

When I say a convenient location at home, my friends look at me like I am insane. "You're home, location is not an issue." But have you ever had to find a DVD in your huge movie collection, to no avail... and then give up? Have you ever had to find or set up the ironing board, lawn mower, prepare to wash the dishes (by hand)? Although there is not A LOT of work involved, if you are not used to doing this on a regular basis, those clothes may not get ironed for a few days, or those dishes may not get washed until much later. And the lawn, well no one else is looking so "why not wait until next weekend?"

Granted these things have to and will get done, you may not have the same urgency to exercise... at first. Imagine having to find the "other" dumbbell, or having to go into the attic for the yoga mat. Make sure that they fitness equipment is in reach so that when you feel the urge to exercise, you are not discouraged by the inconvenience of not being able to locate the exercise ball (and make sure the ball in inflated).

So this year, make your wellness resolution come true. Get out and make it happen. Keep me posted on your progress.