Determine a Realistic Strategy for Success

Determine a Realistic Strategy for Success

Is the gym really the best option for you at 6 a.m.? Dragging yourself, work clothes, shoes, hair dryer, and makeup bags all the way to the gym—ugh, we're ready to go back to bed just thinking about it! Isn't there something easier you could do instead? A great workout DVD or a home circuit routine can be just as effective as a gym session.

More great options: Walk or jog around the neighborhood, or check for boot camp sessions at nearby parks. Find a way to make your morning workout something you'll look forward to and be able to stick with without a lot of extra effort (with the exception of the effort you'll put into your actual sweat session, of course).

Plan to Fail

Yes, you read that right. While we do love the expression "fail to plan, plan to fail," being prepared to fail truly is the best credo you can have when it comes to sticking with your fitness routine. Life happens, and you've got to be prepared with a backup plan. Maybe you decided your best morning workout strategy was running outdoors—so what happens when you wake up on a rainy day?
Decide ahead of time what you'll do if (when) something out of your control comes up. Create more than one alternative so that when your workout partner cancels (time to try that Tabata workout?) or that snowstorm hits (how about a workout DVD?), you'll still be able to rise, sweat, and shine.