Starting a fitness routine doesn’t have to be hard, it can be as easy as you choose to make it. Whether you are looking to improve your mental well being or shed some extra pounds in time for summer, there is habits and hacks that can help you achieve your goals. Which is why we have put together 5 easy ways you can turn exercise from a chore into a habit.

Stick to activities you enjoy

This may sound simple and pretty obvious, but most people choose to do activities they hate because they’ve been told it’s the best workout for them. Realistically you will grow to hate this exercise and associate it with discomfort or pain. Why not pick something you enjoy?

Exercise in the morning or the way home from work

Although it may seem like a struggle at the time to get out of bed in the morning, your body will thank you later. By getting up early to exercise, you start the day as you mean to go on. Not only will you feel more awake when you get to work, but you will feel more motivated to get work done. If morning exercise isn’t your thing, be sure to pack your gym vest and shorts in your bag for after work. The bag will play as a constant reminder of the exercise you have committed to carry out after work.

Track your activity

Keep a note of all your activity and accomplishes, this will give you a clear outline of what you have achieved and how far you have come. If this isn’t for you, just keep a track of your daily activity with a pedometer or smart watch. Seeing a physical number increase or decrease will drive you to commit more to your healthy habits.

Reward yourself

Throwing yourself into a new way of life can be exhausting and challenging, so it’s key to keep rewarding yourself.  This treat can be anything from a cheat meal to a new pair of gym joggers you have had your eye on all month! You’ve worked hard to achieve your goals and you deserve to reward yourself.

Commit to a partner

Make exercising social, it doesn’t always have to be you alone sweating in the gym! By introducing a friend to your healthy habits, you will feel more committed to stick to them. Not only will the partner act as a motivator but it will make exercise seem like a bonding session.