I love the gym – I’m serious – and working out is stress relief.  Yet during the most stressful times at work I start out with good intentions and then spend the evenings on the couch catching what rest I can. 

This year I wasn’t having it.  Not working out for two months makes me miserable.  In previous years I could use injury or illness as an excuse…this year…no excuses.  But I needed a plan.

1. Put my money where my mouth is. 
   
   With a gym membership and home equipment working out should be easy…WRONG!  I’d wait until p.m. or 10 p.m. to go to the gym…and talk myself out of it.  This year I purchased a special discount of Zumba classes that could only be used before the New Year.  I hate wasting money so I’ve been to nearly every class.

2. Give me a break. It’s a crazy time and I don’t want to go crazy. Okay who am I kidding…I’m already crazy.  But I can’t afford to go complete insane…okay maybe I’m there too.  Exercise is a great break in my day to lace up my shoes and sweat before getting back to work.
   

3. Eye on the prize.  Goals ad rewards are great motivation to get the job done.  Twelve days before Christmas I wish my motivation was intrinsic health and happiness.  But I’m looking for the loot.  I promised myself a new workout outfit if I missed no more than three classes.  I’ve only missed one so I’m on target. I can’t wait!

Setting specific goals and rules push me with workouts.  I’ve felt the healthiest, fittest and most rested this Christmas…kind of funny because I’ve worked the hardest. 

It feels fantastic!

How about checking out :

Fitness FunctionI love doing multiple types of workouts because it’s all about functional fitness. My body isn’t always moving forward in a run or bending ... Enjoying the Zumba PartyBut more than a workout, Zumba feels like a party with friends. Dressing up in my Zumba best and dancing with my friends makes ... Need a Shower Workoutbut I feel like a cheater. Sure I can check off “workout” on my calendar but I haven’t really WORKED out. Those workouts are ... Pretty Pink PolarIt likes to hand out on my wrist…even in the cold for a New Year’s Race. A HRM was my big reward for a ...