Everyone wants to find the perfect workout; one that will get you the best results and will fit in to your lifestyle. When it comes to selecting the best workout, it’s perfectly normal to have a lot of questions. What’s the best activity to participate in? How do I get the most out of exercising? What do I do with my baby while I exercise? How long should I exercise?

Often, the hardest part of getting into shape is taking the first step. Here are some simple steps to help you begin your journey.

• Find something you enjoy. Based on the areas of your body you want to work on and the amount of time you have to spend exercising each day, you can find a workout that you won’t dread when you think about it. If the gym doesn’t exactly motivate you, don’t worry; you may just need to change your setting. Most people don’t feel very motivated to work out in their homes either, because it’s much too tempting to relax on the couch or slip back into bed. For a change of scenery, try working out outdoors or with a group. Whether you enjoy running or walking outside or participating in a group, find an activity that you enjoy doing; this not only helps provide motivation for exercise, but allows you to enjoy it!

• Find activity that fits in to your lifestyle.  Most people slack off their exercise programs because it doesn’t easily fit into daily life. Exercise must be a priority in order to establish it as a lifestyle practice. Make time for your workouts and schedule them on your daily calendar or planner.

• Make the most of your workout time.
    *  Don’t feel guilty that you don’t have an hour or two each day to workout. Just make the most of the time you do have to workout, and plan your day wisely. For instance, if you can walk to work, take advantage of this daily opportunity. Of course, you can always take the stairs instead of the elevator while at the office. Taking a walk instead of watching television after dinner is also a great way to keep off extra pounds, and it could even help you sleep sounder. If you don’t have time to go to the gym or don’t own weights and want to do some toning, you can use your own body weight to shape up your thighs, abs, and arms. Twenty to fifty push-ups a day can help to tone the arms and chest, leg lunges can help to firm the thighs and glutes, and about fifty crunches a day can keep your waistline in check. 
    *  Also, exercising with your child can solve any baby sitting issues and help you be a great role model for health and wellness. 

• Challenge yourself. Often our success and motivation are based on results. With any activity, it helps to have a goal. Whether it be an event or a level of achievement, sometimes it helps to have something to work towards.

• Consider a coach. Trying to get in shape all by yourself can be a daunting process. It’s hard to stay motivated when you are alone, coaches or trainers can help keep you motivated with lots of support and encouragement. 

Most people do too much, too hard, too fast. Select a realistic and achievable workout plan and it will become your best workout!

Anna Fincher (MommieInMotion)