With summer right around the corner it’s time to start thinking about shedding the winter blues as well as some winter pounds.  Starting a fitness habit is no problem, maintenance is the real challenge. Researchers say it takes 66 days for a healthy resolution to become a habit. Here’s a few tips to get you off the couch and on your way to your new routine. You’ll be ready to strut your stuff around the pool in no time!

1. Change the word fitness to active
   and the possibilities are endless. 
   Fitness doesn’t necessarily mean joining a gym or owning a set of weights.  Do activities that you enjoy doing. You’ll be much more motivated and less likely to talk yourself out of it, if it’s something you look forward to doing. We live in an amazing place where there is a 5k practically every weekend, abundant hiking and biking trails are abundant, and snow is just a short drive away.  Did you know that the City of Redmond has 23 developed parks and over 30 miles of trails right in your own backyard?
   
   
2. Find a workout buddy. 
   Being accountable to someone else will help you stick to your commitment.  Exercise should be fun and the social aspect is just as important as the activity!
   
   
3. Exercise first thing in the morning.
   Set the alarm 30 minutes earlier and cross working out off your todo list. If you are not a morning person, do your workout immediately after work.  Pack your workout bag with you and don’t go home first. It’s too easy to make excuses once you are home, other tasks take precedence and good intentions go to the wayside.
   
   
4. Make exercise a priority. 
   You should never feel guilty about scheduling time for exercise and putting yourself ahead of others.  You’ll be more enjoyable to be around, and have more energy for your friends and family if you are in good health.
     
   
5. Set small goals for yourself. 
   Want to lose 20 pounds?  Try working towards five pounds first.  Breaking your large goal into smaller chunks will make it seem more attainable and less intimidating.  Be sure to celebrate the small goals, rewards are motivating and will keep you going!