HOW TO KEEP UP YOUR WORKOUT ROUTINE DURING THE FALL SEASON

Fall brings the start of the holiday season. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s will soon be upon us. And, that means holiday parties, food, more food, family, fun and more fun. But, is there a tipping point?  A point where it starts to harm that physique you’re striving to perfect and maintain?

On average, people who watch their diet and exercise still tend to gain about 1-2 pounds over the holiday season. However, there are some people just can’t control themselves. They end up gaining as much as 10 pounds. Don’t be those people!!

It really is possible to stick to your routine during the fall season. But it does take a little refocusing on your goals. So, where to start?

Here are 7 really smart tips to help you keep up your workout routine during the fall season. 

1. Start Small, and Build Momentum

That’s the easiest way to start your routine and stick to it. For instance, instead of telling yourself you’re going to cut out all the sugar in your diet, first start by cutting out all the sugary drinks. Once you're comfortable with that, then start moving towards eliminating all the sugar in your diet. 

Starting small helps you feel like you’re making big progress toward your goals.

2. Set an achievable Goal

Another way to stick to your routine is by setting an achievable goal. The life coach and author Tony Robbins said, “Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible.” Without goals that you can work toward, it’s almost impossible to make what you want happen. 

Give yourself a deadline and a reward or punishment to go along with it. This will keep your momentum moving in the right direction.

3. Keep Your Routine Fun

Do the exercises and physical activities that you enjoy. Eat foods you enjoy. After all, we only live once. Be sure to live every day to the fullest. It’s simple, and it will help sustain your routine.

4. Reward Yourself 

Ever heard of positive reinforcement? Here’s how it works: Give yourself a reward after you accomplish something you regard as significant. Your routine will start to stick, because your brain will start associating that action with the reward! 

Say you go to the gym 5 days a week. Reward yourself with a trip to your favorite restaurant. Now you’ll be more motivated to go to the gym because you’ll get a good meal out of it, and you’ll be more likely to stick to your new routine. 

Why does this work? We’re addicted to instant gratification like cell phones, Amazon, and donuts. That’s because our brains are wired for short, positive feedback. Just accept it and use it to your benefit. You’ll be amazed at the positive changes in your life. 

5. Track How Far You’ve Come 

To understand how far you’ve come in your training, track your progress! It’s a great way to stay on track, motivated, and focused on your goal. 

Tracking progress also helps foretell possible setbacks and helps you set more realistic goals, so you stay positive. 

6. Develop Your Self-Awareness 

Your body will tell you when you need breaks. Learn to fully understand yourself by listening to your body. You’ll figure out why you decided to stop training halfway through your workout. And, why you had to have that pumpkin ice cream for dessert.  

When you truly listen to your body, it gets easier for you to continue toward your goals. 

7. Make a Plan and Adhere to It

As mentioned in #2 above, the only way to achieve your goals is by making a simple plan and stick to it.

Plan out the food you eat, your workouts, and the supplements and protein powders you’re taking. That leaves less room for errors and setbacks. There are many training worksheets and personal journals out there to help you organize the right plan for you.

For more health and fitness tips, visit gatsport.com.