How to Create a Workout Routine That Works for You

You know you should be working out, but somehow you just can’t seem to find the time or motivation to get started. Trust us, we get it. But the good news is that there are plenty of ways to work exercise into your busy schedule—you just have to get creative and be willing to think outside the gym. Here’s how to create a workout routine that fits your lifestyle.

1. Set realistic goals.
The first step to creating a workout routine is to set some realistic goals. What do you hope to accomplish by working out? Do you want to lose weight, gain muscle, improve your cardiovascular health, or just feel better in general? Once you’ve identified your goals, you can start brainstorming ways to achieve them.

2. Find an activity you enjoy.
Let’s be honest—working out isn’t always fun. But it doesn’t have to be a chore if you find an activity that you actually enjoy. Maybe you like group exercise classes, or perhaps you prefer working out solo. Maybe you like high-intensity interval training (HIIT), or maybe you prefer something a little more low-key. There are endless possibilities, so take some time to experiment until you find something that works for you. And don’t be afraid to mix things up from time to time so you don’t get bored!

3. Schedule it into your day.
Once you’ve found an activity you enjoy, it’s important to schedule it into your day so it becomes a regular part of your routine. Dedicate 30 minutes to an hour each day (or whatever amount of time works for you) and put it in your calendar just like any other appointment. This will help ensure that you make time for exercise even on the busiest of days.

4. Get a workout buddy.
Working out with a friend or family member can make the whole experience more enjoyable—and more likely to stick! Having someone to hold you accountable will help keep you motivated when things get tough, and it’s always more fun to sweat it out with someone else than go at it alone. So recruit a friend or family member and get moving!

Creating a workout routine doesn’t have to be complicated—it just takes some creativity and planning. By finding an activity you enjoy, setting some realistic goals, and scheduling it into your day, you can easily work exercise into even the busiest of schedules. And don’t forget the power of a workout buddy! Having someone else along for the ride will help keep things fun and ensure that you stick with it in the long run.