Thanks to a very cold and snowy winter, many of us experienced a seasonally imposed sort of hibernation.  Sure, we all know that moving everyday is important and good for our bodies, but when faced with frigid temps it’s so much easier to curl up under a blanket with a good book or catch up on the newest movie releases.

The earth she has thawed, and spring is finally here;  it’s time for us to move everyday.

Create a Morning Routine and Commit to Change:

It may be hard, but the best time to get moving is first thing in the morning.  This is your time, do it for yourself.  Instead of sitting down with your coffee and checking your email or watching a morning show on TV, make sure your iPod is charged up and get moving to your favorite tunes.   Afterward, enjoy your breakfast on your back patio, feeling accomplished that you did something positive first thing in the morning.

Get a Work-out Buddy:

If it’s not possible for you to do your moving first thing in the morning, maybe an afternoon walk, jog, or a bike ride will motivate you.  Or maybe your local parks and recreation center offers classes such as Zumba or Yoga in the early evening.   Doing these activities with a buddy makes it even more motivating. You get in your social time as well as making positive steps in daily movement.   In being active with a friend you can cheer each other on, enjoy each others’ successes, and motivate one another to go the extra mile.

Strive for Thirty:

You don’t have to buy yourself a gym membership to get moving.  Just start slow and work up your intensity.   If the weather doesn’t cooperate have a workout video handy so that you can ensure you get the daily thirty in.  Also, you can work on adding new activities to your routine, building up gradually.   Keep weights next to the television so that you can do some work outs while watching your favorite show.   Do sit-ups, push-ups, jumping jacks, or just do some Yoga.  All it takes is 30 minutes a day!

Get Competitive:

Organize your own “Biggest Mover” group on Facebook, or just post your achievements on your Facebook.   Some of your friends might be up to the challenge and good old competition is an excellent motivator.  Or… you could join a site, such as Daily Mile, to keep track of your movement.   These types of fitness social media sites offer tons of encouragement and motivation from fellow friends and movers.

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun:

Adding in fun exercise, like a dancing class with your partner, a day hiking excursion with a group of girlfriends, or walking somewhere scenic and serene (along a lake or beach)  are all great motivators.    There are no rules when it comes to exercise and fitness.  Having fun will make it easier for you to love what you do, making a dedicated commitment to expending energy and breaking a sweat!

Start slow and build back up.
Cut yourself some slack.
Do what you can, when you can.
Don’t get down on yourself
Just do it!

What are you doing to ensure that you move everyday?