How to Start an Exercise Routine

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by Renae Chiovaro on February 3, 2011

montenegro method

I started on an workout program this week after taking a couple of years hiatus from regular exercise. Now, I am no expert in this subject! I am writing this post partially to motivate you but also to keep me accountable! It is not easy to roll out of bed at 6am in order to workout.

Here are a few tips that I have used this week to keep myself going:

  • Determine the best time for you to exercise. The only time I could make this work was getting up early. Some of you may find it easier to workout at night. Do what works with your schedule.
  • Lay out your clothes and shoes in advance. When my alarm blares at 6am I really want to push that snooze button. I am more likely to get up if I know everything is organized and ready to go.
  • Have a plan for what you will be doing for your workout routine. Again, I am not in the right mind to make those decisions in the morning- especially pre-coffee! I am starting with the Montenegro Method and Yoga DVDs. Before bed I decide what series I will do in the morning.
  • Start off slow. Don’t try to do too much too soon. Don’t overwhelm yourself- start with a 15-20 minute routine and then work your way up.
  • Get plenty of sleep. I know my body works best on 7-8 hours of sleep. Most nights I don’t get the correct amount of sleep- but I am working on it! Knowing that my alarm goes off even earlier now, I have been forcing myself to go to sleep earlier.

After my first workout this week, I felt great! I actually ate breakfast that morning- which I hardly ever do (I know, very bad!). I felt energized all day long which in turn kept me motivated to continue the workout routine. My muscles are a bit sore- okay really sore- and that is why I decided to alternate with yoga.

If I can stick with this program, I would love to try P90X. So what about you, do you have an exercise routine? What are your tips for staying motivated?

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Renae Chiovaro

Renae is a married working mom of two handsome boys. She works as a registered dental hygienist by day and blogs here at How to Have it All by night. She enjoys cooking from scratch, working in her vegetable garden and functional training.

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