Top 10 Ways To Be Active (and Stay Active)

1. Choose a consistent time

Try to plan your work outs for the same time each day. Working out will become part of your routine and help you to maintain an active lifestyle. 

2. Create action plans 

Make a goal (i.e. loose 5 lbs), but most importantly, decide HOW you will accomplish it! 

*Tip: Use the FITT principles as a guide. Frequency of workouts (# of workouts/week), intensity (light, moderate, vigorous), time (how long), type (what kind of exercise). 

Example: 

F: 4 times per week

I: Moderate intensity 

T: 45 minutes/workout session

T: Jogging and/or cycling


3. Do morning workouts, when possible

If you have the option, do your workout in the morning. You are more likely to make excuses to miss it later in the day. 

4. Track your progress

Post workout, write down what you did. The more specific the better! At the bare minimum, mark an "X" on the calendar for every workout you complete. Look back and be proud of what you have accomplished. Look forward to future workouts with more confidence. 

5. Make activity part of your routine 

Can't find a block of time to be physically active? Build it into your day! Get off the bus one or two stops early and walk! Take the stairs instead of the elevator! Make it your goal to complete 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day, in at least 10 minute bouts. 

6. Plan active get togethers

Be active when you get together with your friend(s). For instance, get coffee "to go" and walk!

7. Rely on your friends and family 

Ask friends and family to play a role in your active lifestyle! Their encouragement, knowledge, companionship or practical assistance (i.e. driving you to the gym) may be what you need to be active and stay active! 

8. Anticipate obstacles

Anticipate a day when your workout plan falls through. What could the reason be? How will you cope with it? Think about barriers that could come up before they happen! This will help to maintain your active lifestyle. Don't let yourself relapse into a sedentary living pattern! Get back to your workout routine the next possible day! 

9. Buddy up

Join a group work out class or find someone to work out with! This will strengthen your commitment to being consistently active. It is also an opportunity to socialize. Still, be confident that you are able to be active independently.  

10. Use your resources 

Canada's Physical Activity Guide provides information on the benefits of being physically active, suggestions on the amount of physical activity you should complete, exercise intensities and more. Use this knowledge and apply it to you! Use health care professionals for more individualized information. Use online resources to track your progress. 


How do you stay active?