Make it sticky!

Did you know it takes at least 21 days to form a habit (good or bad)?

So, three weeks into your membership, do you feel like exercise is a habit for you? If not, don’t worry, here are some top tips to help make it stick – for life!

  1. Vary your activity.Having a variety of activities in your workout plan -- weight lifting, walking, running, swimming, cycling, aerobics classes -- will ensure that you can do something regardless of the weather or time of day. And with unlimited gym, swim and classes included in your membership, you’ve got everything covered!
  2. Have a workout partner. Agreeing to exercise with a friend means you won’t want to let them down so it’s less likely you’ll talk yourself out of going for your workout. Exercise becomes a social occasion, which makes it more appealing. Plus, a little friendly competition will make you work harder and see results faster!
  3. Make exercise a priority.It has to be non-negotiable or you’ll find reasons not to do it. Write it down if you need to, on the calendar or in a journal – seeing things in black and white make them a commitment that you’re much less likely to break. Logging activity also makes it easier to see progress and achievement – remember you can track your Moves in our app!
  4. Have a set time of day to exercise.Find an early class, or hit the pool or gym first thing in the morning before everyone else gets up and life, work, family get in the way. Then it’s ticked off and you're energised for the day knowing your workout is already done. If you prefer to de-stress later in the day, take your gym clothes to work and drop in on your way home. Just don't go home first – it’s too hard to get out the door again!
  5. Remember how good it feels. Energised, happy and proud are just a few of the words to describe the exercise after-glow. Even when you think you're "too tired", you'll always feel better after exercising thanks to those lovely endorpbhins!
  6. Reward yourself.Making behavioral changes is hard. By being active you are doing something good for yourself now and in the future – doesn’t that deserve a reward?! Set your goal and choose a reward, then work towards it. Maybe some new trainers when you achieve 750 Moves per day for a month, or googles when you can swim 20 lengths without stopping. Whatever works for you.