by Samantha Montpetit-Huynh

Now that the kids are back in school and you are attempting to create somewhat of a routine, it’s the perfect time to extend those thoughts and start a fitness program for yourself.

It’s quite common for people to train hard for the summer, just to fall off the wagon half way through and then find themselves somewhat disappointed by the end. But don’t fret. If this is you, you certainly are not alone.

There is no time like the present to re-create what you once lost! Seeing as over the next couple of weeks, “routine” will be the theme, this is the ideal time to take advantage of the continuous sunny days and become motivated in getting back into an exercise routine.

Search inwards to find what you like. Do you like being out doors? Are you a social person who likes exercise classes? Or do you shy away from a typical gym environment and prefer to work out on your own and are you disciplined enough to do it?

What type of exercise do you like? Aerobics? Strength training? Spinning? Boot camp? Yoga or Pilates?

1.  Create a schedule. Seeing as you are already the manager of the household and extra curricular activities, there is no reason why you can not include your exercise routine on the same schedule. This way it is public knowledge for all to see and those around you are more apt to take you seriously. You included.

2.  Hook up with a partner or two! There’s a reason why the expression “strength in number’s” is so popular. If you (like millions around you) find it hard to stick to a schedule, find someone to be accountable to. They don’t necessarily have to workout with you, but if you make an agreement where you have to report to someone on a regular basis, you have just improved your chances for success! Hence the reason why 80% of people get personal trainers; not because they don’t know what to do, but because they will be accountable to someone.

3.  Be realistic. Setting the bar too high with “I’m going to hit the gym 5 days a week” in most cases, will only set you up for failure. Starting with 2-3 times is doable especially if there are little ones running afoot. Anything additional is gravy. Sound good?

But before any of the above, sit down and remind yourself why you are doing this in the first place. Are you aware of the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines  developed by the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology? Furthermore, do you know what could happen if you are not?

Unfortunately many women find out the hard way so make a clear commitment to yourself that should you fall off the wagon, that’s ok. It’s not about quick fixes, it’s about changing your life.

What is the toughest part of getting back into an exercise routine for you?

Samantha Montpetit-Huynh is the mother of two beautiful girls and the founder of Core Expectations, Toronto’s only full services wellness team that delivers personal training, abdominal rehabilitation and other support services to the homes and offices of pregnant women and new moms across the GTA.