Over the next few weeks, I want to share with you the top ten strategies that I personally believe it takes to stick with an exercise program.  Each week, I will have a basic strategy for you to implement into your program.  Some may not be new.  However, there may be a new way of thinking about it which can lead to consistency in your exercise program, even if you are a busy woman.

STEP 1- THE RIGHT SUPPORTER

When designing an exercise program for a busy woman, I find that consistency can be the biggest challenge.  That is why one of my top ten ways to stick to an exercise program is to find a friend who can be that support and accountability partner. Having someone to give encouragement can contribute greatly to the success of a program.

DO YOU HAVE THE RIGHT SUPPORT?

It is easy to give up if you do not have the support of your spouse, children, or best friend.  Sometimes, they may even be the one, who tries to sabotage your success. If you have found that to be the case for you, find someone else who will be supportive.  The right supporter and true friend will:

• Believe in you with encouragement and motivation
• Look to your interest and not their own
• Share your same goals and values, maybe even become an exercise partner to meet for accountability

1 Thessalonians 5:11 describes the type of friend we should have.

“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up.”

ARE YOU DOING IT ALONE?

We, as women, cannot do it alone.  I was once guilty of being so busy with life that I neglected my friendships.  There was a time I thought is was ok to just have acquaintances and I did not have time to invest in meaningful friendships. Did I miss out?  I now understand the need of having the right “girlfriends” who are all working toward the same goals.

Because of my natural tendency to fear failure, there are times I might quit in many areas of my life.  If those feelings start to surface, I know it is time to reach to my friends who are positive and share the same goals in life.  They give me the courage to move ahead.

Are you someone who has neglected investing in true friendships? Are you surrounding yourself with friends who are a support system for you?  Finding that person may be your first plan of action when starting a new fitness program.  It just may be the key to sticking with it.

I am curious…who is your biggest supporter?

To Your Health!

Crystal