10 ways to get back into fitness...

Spring has finally sprung, and change is in the air! For those of us that may have fallen off the wagon since our New Years resolutions were made here are 10 easy ways to get ourselves back on track!

1. Set small and achievable goals. This could be as basic as taking the stars to work instead of the elevator, or going to the gym three times a week for 30-45 minutes. Make these goals part of your schedule like you would any other appointment! If its not written down it's easier to skip!

2. Write down your fitness and health goals or share them with a friend or partner. Sharing your goals makes you accountable and can help when temptation or fatigue arises. Make sure if writing you goals they are somewhere that you can see them everyday!

3. Start working with a Personal Trainer! Even if you've been going to the gym for 50 million years, a PT can help establish a fun and motivating fitness routine. Trainers can help you reach your goals up to 80% better and 3x faster by properly assessing you, developing programs that fit your needs and updating them regularly, and by helping with behavioral change necessary for long term success.

4. Pack a healthy lunch and snacks the night before. This is something my Mother made me do through my whole academic life, and it works! By packing a full lunch and snacks you aren't tempted to made bad eating choices while on the go; nor are you stressed out in the morning over having to come up with a lunch 5 minutes before you have to leave for work (or school). Also by planning your family meals on Sunday and buying the necessary ingredients needed you are organized for healthy eating and far less likely to resort to fast food as a crutch.

5. Pack your fitness clothes the night before. Another idea that my Mother drilled into me from childhood. This small task, if your anything like me, can become an hour process if forgotten. By having everything ready the night before you are mentally and physically prepares to workout the next day without a time shortage!

6. Keep an extra pair of running shoes (or cross trainers) in your car or at the office so that you can have short bursts of activities at different times during the day when your schedule allows (remember those stairs mentioned earlier?).

7. Try a new activity. Tennis, golf or a new Group Exercise class; these new experience can be the thing to keep you motivated and back into a regular routine.

8. Find a friend that can join you at the club at a set time every day. For me this use to be my Father, he was great motivation, and added a little friendly competition to boot!

9. Make it fun! You'll quit if your routine is boring and unmanageable. Pick activities both in and outside of the gym that you enjoy and you'll be back on track in no time!

10. Talk to Staff and Members. Learning new tips and ideas about how to make the most out of your workouts and stay motivated is as easy as saying "Hi" to the person on the treadmill next to you!

Remember it only takes three weeks to develop a habit! So establish a set of goals and a achievable schedule.  If you start now you'll be well on your way to looking and feeling your best by Canada Day!