How to Turn Fitness into a Habit in 33 Days

The only way to truly get fit is to turn exercise into a habit.

When it comes to losing weight and maintaining a fit lifestyle, diet will only get you so far. If you a really want to lose weight and keep it off, you have to actually change your lifestyle. The easiest way to do that, is to make a habit of it.

Research says it only takes 33 days to create a habit. So, if you can motor through 33 days with fitness as a priority, chances are it will remain a priority.

The benefits of working out will become apparent within those 33 days, and you will likely start seeing positive changes in your body, and your overall energy level. So while turning something into a habit seems like a daunting concept, in this instance your body will support you in it.

READ MORE: Fitness Fears and How to Work Through Them

So if I told you that you could change your life in 33 days, you would be silly not to give it a try, right? Here is how:

Commit to exercise for 33 days. For 33 days, exercise needs to be at the top of your priority list. You can promise yourself an entire sheet-cake after those 33 days. Do whatever it takes to commit to the cause.

Do a variety of activities. Committing to fitness is the easy part. The fun part is that you can access that fitness in a variety of different ways. In fact, switching up your exercise routines in this time will help you land on a fitness plan and strategy that works for you.

Use this an excuse to try new things. If you have ever wanted to try aerial yoga, women’s flag football, or parkour, this 33 day fitness challenge is a good time to try it all. As long as you are being physical and getting a good workout, the sky is the limit to what you can try.

Work out in the AM, or after work. Statistically you are much more like to to stick with a fitness routine if you work out first thing in the morning, or on your way home from work.

Do not compromise, or bargain with yourself. Chances are, the little voice in your head is going to try all kinds of tactics to try and convince you not to work out. Don’t listen, don’t compromise, and don’t bargain. At least for 33 days.

Use social media to hold yourself accountable. Posting your progress, and sharing gym selfies is encouraged for this 33 day challenge. It will help keep you accountable.

Get a pedometer. Counting your steps will help turn fitness into a game for you. Being cognizant of your fitness overall during these 33 days is vital to your success, and a pedometer will help you gauge how much exercise you get on a regular basis.

Plan your rewards. It’s okay to reward yourself once in a while, especially if you are trying to change your overall fitness routine. Plan small rewards for yourself at the end of every week, and a big one for the end of the 33 days.

Include your friends. Letting friends know what you are doing, and inviting them to join along once in a while is a great way to not only hold yourself accountable, but to spread the love in terms of fitness. The more the merrier!