Vote in This Week's Poll: How consistent are you with your exercise program?
Okay, I made that last one up, but the other ones are true.
If you truly want to take advantage of all exercise has to offer, you have to be consistent. Being consistent means exercising at least 3 days a week, although more is always better. Too much time between workouts can almost be like starting all over. So, it's just as you suspected - exercise is the very definition of using it or losing it.
Many people stay consistent by following the 80/20 rule - namely that you exercise and eat right at least 80% of the time for good results. This rule works well for some people because it's much easier to stick with your program when you know a break is coming.
I'm curious about your exercise habits. How consistent are you when it comes to your workouts? Do you manage to get them in every week or do you do them in fits and starts? Vote in this week's poll and then leave a comment if you have some advice about being more consistent with exercise.
Poll: How consistent are you with your exercise program?
1. I'm very consistent, getting in most of my workouts every week
2. I'm fairly consistent and get at least a minimum of exercise each week
3. I'm somewhat consistent, but have trouble maintaining my schedule for the long-term
4. I'm not consistent at all
5. I go through phases where I exercise regularly and then stop
6. I don't exercise
7. Other - please explain in comments
More About Consistent Exercise
Comments
I work out five days each week and follow a very strict regimen…My diet is very rigid, but I do allow once per week for a cheat day…
I’m not consistent at all sometime I will go for a month very consistent and the stop however I try to follow the 80/20 rule
I always attempt to be very habitual about my workout, however I am not going to beat myself up should I miss a few either, because let’s face it “life” happens.
And then there are times that I find I can work out..without actually doing the cardio..etc..because I am chasing the kids, lifting water jugs, vacuming etc. It all depends upon how you look at it.
this is my 3rd week after 2 weeks off. Big mistake to stop.
As Tammie stated, it does depend on how you look at it. I seem to start a scheduled workout with gusto at times but then I get distracted with so many things going on. I try not to sit down to much during the day and cleaning the house does burn calories. So does going to the gym with my husband to play basketball for 1/2 hour yesterday. I feel as long as I am moving, I am getting in some exercise.
I work out 4-5 times a week at the “Y”. Using the elliptical trainer and push-ups, chin-ups sit-ups, stretches, weight lifting and take yoga and step classes. The “Y” people keep me inspired and regular. I occasionaly have to miss and I really regret missing.