No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way. Hebrews 12:11 (NLT)

Just like everyone else, I have days when I don’t feel like working out, eating healthy, or taking care of my body. Yet, despite how I feel, I have learned to stay consistent, which is the key to results. Over the years I have learned a few things that has made sticking to my commitments easier. Here are some of my top tips for staying committed to moving my body consistently.

1. Have a plan. Specifically, I like to schedule my workouts ahead of time. I generally do this every Sunday for the coming week, so I know exactly what I will be doing on what days. I treat every workout like an appointment that I can’t reschedule. This keeps me committed, even on the days when I don’t necessarily feel like working out.
2. Get workouts done early in the morning. There was a time when I would cringe at the thought of rolling out of bed and working out. However, I have found that there are often more pros than cons when it comes to morning workouts. I also find that it leaves little to no room for excuses when you work out early in the day. If you feel that you aren’t a morning person, I recommend going to bed earlier. After a while you may even notice that you have more energy during the rest of your day, and it may even lead you to make better decisions when it comes to caring for my body.
3. Be prepared. One of the most important keys that has kept me working out consistently is being prepared. I like to have my clothes laid out, my workout bottle filled and in the fridge, and my workout written (if I am working out on my own). That way, I can set my alarm clock with just enough time to wash my face, brush my teeth, and throw on my workout clothes. Being prepared ahead of time allows me to get up and go, leaving less room for excuses.
4. Eat a pre-workout snack. I like to eat something light before heading out the door for my workout. I recommend eating something higher in carbohydrates and lower in protein and fat. Carbohydrates are often the easiest food group to digest, giving your body the fuel it needs for the workout. I suggest something such as overnight oatmeal, fruit, or yogurt. Again, this will vary from person to person, so I recommend experimenting with a few different options to see what works best for you. Also, be sure to always have a water bottle ready to go. Being hydrated is especially important before you work up a sweat.
5. Workout at home. One of the reasons that may be preventing you from working out is that you simply don't have enough time. If that’s the case, there is a solution! Working out at home is one of the best and easiest ways to get a quick and effective workout because it doesn't require the extra time to drive to and from a gym. There are plenty of at-home workout options that only require a few simple pieces of equipment (such as dumbbells), as well as some that don't require anything except your own body weight.
6. Have a workout playlist ready. Having a good workout playlist is one of the key factors that gets me motivated to workout. Personally, I like to listen to upbeat Christian music while working out, which allows me to combine my workout with worship. This helps me start my day off on the right track physically and spiritually as well!
7. Partner with God. Last but not least- my top tip is always to take it to God in prayer! If you need encouragement in this area, pray this prayer with me!

Lord, I thank you that with you I can do all things! Help me to be determined to keep running the race and pressing on towards the goals to which you have called me. Please give me boldness and courage to try new forms of exercise, and give me wisdom about what the best options are for moving my body. Help me not to fall into the trap of discouragement and a defeated mindset. I thank you that no matter how many times I fall, that you will always help me get back up. I am making the decision today to keep doing what I know to do and I know the results will come as I make this decision not to give up! In Jesus Name, Amen.