What would your fitness routine look like if it were easy?

Fact: Most of us LOVE to make things complicated.

Do you agree?

Hands up if this is you ??♀?: you decide to make a change to improve your health and fitness, and all of a sudden, you start thinking about ALL the ways to make that change MORE EFFECTIVE.

So you start layering in new rules or extra guidelines to FASTTRACK your results.?

?? Here's an example: You plan your workout days to kick-start a new fitness routine.

The simple way: I'm going to work out 4 days a week for the next 30 days.

Versus:?

The complex way: I'm going to do HIIT cardio in the morning, attend a group exercise class after work, have salad for lunch five days a week, start meditating, drink more water, and only eat with my left hand ??.?

Well, joking about the last one, but you get the idea!???

If we have to choose between two things, myself included - one that's clear and simple or one that's more complex with more steps – we usually choose the complex option.

The problem with that is it can be REALLY hard to stick to over time. Especially if this process makes you feel stressed, overwhelmed, or gets in the way of being consistent, then it's time to streamline and get SIMPLE.

?? This is how you start:

Focus on the ONE thing at a time that works FOR you. Once that one thing becomes a habit and automatic and part of your lifestyle, then add another.?

?? Here are some ideas to get you started on making your routine simple:

1. Choose the simplest action that moves you forward

The emphasis here is 'the simplest' - if the action you have chosen can not rate your commitment for 9 or 10 of 10, then it is not 'simple' enough, meaning in reality, you will likely struggle with sticking to it over the longer term. The solution? Choose an even smaller and simpler action instead, the one you can commit to doing at least 9 out 10.

2. Make sure those actions work with your lifestyle & schedule

This is an important factor that many people ignore. I know we all have the best intentions to stick to a health and fitness routine, but I also know that if you are like me, having a demanding corporate job, a family and kids need your attention 24/7, maybe even a side business like I have, you just don't know what life will throw at you from time to time.?

To make sure you take those actions you have chosen, it needs to become a part of your lifestyle and suit your daily schedule. Do not rely on your 'willpower'; Instead, make it non-negotiable in your daily life habits, just like you brush teeth and shower every day. Even if it starts with 5 minutes a day.

3. Include activities and food you enjoy.

You don't have to run if you don't like running (like me); you don't have to eat kale if you don't like its taste or texture.

Just because some workout or a 'diet' get results for your friends, you don't have to go down that path if you don't enjoy it.?

The best program is the one you can stick to. In order to stick to it, you need to enjoy it, whether it is an exercise routine or any nutritional choice.?

As human beings, we tend to move towards what makes us feel good; when we feel good, we want to do more.?

So choose the activities and the workout routine you love and make yourself feel fantastic!?

4. Consider working with an accountability buddy or a coach to keep you focused & accountable

Although I believe that accountability comes from within (i.e. YOU) when it comes to sustainable changes in your health, fitness and nutrition routines. That being said, it comes with strategy and practices over time.

When you just start making a new healthy routine habitual, you will benefit from having support from an accountability buddy. It could be a friend having the same goal as you, a family member, or a coach who can kick your butt with love and get you to keep going when things get tough.?

5. Stick to a program for at least four weeks CONSISTENTLY before you say to yourself, ' this doesn't work for me.'

Program hopping is one of the biggest mistakes I see many people make. I was also guilty of this at the beginning of my own fitness journey.??

I get it! It's so easy to get distracted by some new, trendy ideas when we are flooded with flashy information about fitness and nutrition. Especially when you choose 'simple actions' while your next-door neighbour told you she had lost 8 kilos from a fancy 14-day detox.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to getting into healthy habits with your fitness and nutrition. Before you want to give up on a healthy habit or a fitness/nutrition program after 5 days because you haven't seen the result 'quick enough' yet, ask yourself these questions:

- Do I enjoy it?

- Do I feel good about it?

- Is my sleep improving?

- Have I got more energy?

If you can answer yes to all the above, stick it for 4 weeks minimum and choose actions that help you stay CONSISTENT. Then re-assess whether it truly works or not for you.??

Remember, fitness and nutrition can absolutely be simple and effective. Stay focused on what WORKS for you, and take that one small action every single day.?

Do you find making a change in your exercise routine and nutrition habits hard? Share with me in the comment below!

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