The psychological literature tells us that when it comes to making a change, willpower alone isn't enough. You also have to anticipate obstacles and find a realistic way to integrate the new behavior into your existing routine. With that in mind, here are ten of our hard-won tips.
1. Exercise is like flossing your teeth – if you do it at the same time on the same days each week, it will become a habit.
This is why every morning at 7:15, after her older daughter has left for the bus stop, Ali hops on her recumbent exercise bike and rides until 7:45, when she has to get ready to take her younger daughter to school. If you don't have a regular schedule, do what Susan does and spend a few minutes each Sunday previewing the week ahead and figuring out how to fit in exercise. Then write it into your calendar.
2. If your life is unpredictable, you need exercise that's portable.
Walking and running are great for travellers because all you need to pack are clothes and a pair of running shoes. Ask the concierge or anyone at the front desk for a good, safe route to take. Many hotels keep trail maps on hand.
3. Exercise with a friend.
You are more likely to get out of bed and work out when you know your friend is waiting for you at the bottom of your driveway. Ali much prefers walking with a friend than walking alone, because if she's busy chatting she doesn't notice that she's walking up a murderously steep hill. Although Susan is a dedicated lonesome runner, she does like being part of a group that meets before and after a run.
Page 1 of 3 – Learn how music will enhance your workout on Page 2
Excerpted from Live a Little! by Susan M. Love, M.D., Alice D. Domar, Ph.D., with Leigh Ann Hirschman, Foreword by Nancy L. Snyderman, M.D. Copyright © 2009 by Susan M. Love MD. Excerpted by permission of Crown, a division of Random House of Canada Limited. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
