Some people jokingly say that they are "addicted to sports" because they really like sports. For a balanced and healthy life, having an exercise routine that works for you is important. The thing to remember is that just like alcohol or drugs, you can become a sports addict and this is not healthy. The key to keeping yourself from becoming addicted is to set achievable goals for yourself and not let exercise become an obsession. Exercise is an important part of a healthy life, but overdoing it can have serious negative side effects.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Motivating Yourself to Exercise
Step 1. Enjoy your sport
Doing a physical activity that you enjoy can turn exercise into a hobby, rather than just a calorie-burning activity. Everyone has their own level of exercise intensity. Try to find activities that work for you to enjoy so that you are encouraged to continue exercising and have a healthy relationship with them.
- If you enjoy hanging out in a community and you enjoy lifting weights, then you might be a good fit for a gym.
- If you're the type of person who prefers to be alone and likes aerobic exercise, try walking or jogging. This sport can be combined with other hobbies such as bird watching.
- Dancing is the perfect way to exercise. If you like to dance, try taking regular aerobic dance classes.
Step 2. Make sure you feel good
Many teens and adults use exercise as a healthy escape from everyday stress. While you're still trying to get your body and mind used to exercise, try not to focus on burning calories. You can run on the treadmill or on the track while listening to music, or watch television if you exercise at home.
Some smartphone apps like the Zombies Run app offer interesting storylines that keep you motivated to run and walk while entertaining yourself at the same time
Step 3. Work out to the best of your ability
Try to work out as much as you can so that it helps you to feel more comfortable with your routine, without the added pressure of friends or sports coaches. Make sure you push yourself every time you exercise. Raising your heart rate has a more positive impact on your health than exercising in your comfort zone. However, make sure you don't push yourself too hard.
Part 2 of 3: Establishing a Regular Exercise Routine
Step 1. Set goals for yourself
Exercise should be fun. Take control of your routine and think about what results you want to get out of it. Decide what you want to achieve in the short term, and what goals you want to achieve in the long term. This set goal will make you focus on changes to have a healthier life.
- Create goals that are S. M. A. R. T (P. I. N. T. A. R): Specific (specific), Measurable (can be measured), Achievable (achievable), Relevant (relevant), and Time-bound (has a period of time). For example, "Within two months I will be able to run 5 kilometers by walking/jogging/running three times a week."
- Maybe your short-term goal is something as simple as walking a kilometer. If you can't do it right now, this is a good, workable goal.
- Your long-term goal should be something you can hope for after a few months of practicing. Using the one kilometer walk example from the previous example, you might be able to increase the distance to 2 kilometers. Maybe you should also consult a doctor to determine if your body can run that distance.
Step 2. Take time in your day
This simple step offers many advantages. First of all, you make sure that you have a plan for getting enough exercise. Second, it will limit the amount of exercise you do, so you don't neglect other important aspects of your life. Setting a schedule for exercise and other obligations is part of a healthy life balance.
Make "date time" with yourself to exercise. Put this date on your agenda, just like you would schedule a visit to the dentist. Remember that these activities also prevent you from getting sick
Step 3. Work out with a friend
This will make exercise feel like a social promise with other people that you have to keep. By exercising together, you can support each other to make sure this exercise is done regularly. In addition, you can also observe each other to keep no one from getting addicted to sports.
If your workout buddy is being dishonest or has something to do with the sport, gets angry when he misses a workout, or seems to be getting so excited about exercise that it's no longer fun, your friend may be getting addicted to the sport. You should pay attention to whether there are changes like this in yourself too
Part 3 of 3: Maintaining a Healthy Balance
Step 1. Recognize your own vulnerabilities
Anyone can be a sports addict, from athletes to office workers. If there are changes in your life that allow you to exercise more often, make sure you limit the time and energy you spend on these activities. Create a new exercise plan that will allow you to pursue other interests as well.
Step 2. Limit how much you increase the intensity of your exercise
One sign of exercise addiction is the emergence of unnecessary high expectations associated with increased calorie burn or exercise time. It's natural to want to increase the intensity of your workout, but there are upper limits that you should pay attention to. Try to focus more on other areas of your life when your body is no longer struggling to complete your daily exercise plan.
Step 3. If you are addicted to something, don't overcome it with exercise
Exercise releases dopamine into the brain, which is a chemical your body releases when you're craving something you're addicted to. Running is a good way to get away from tobacco addiction, but you may end up transferring the opiate. Your body does need to get enough exercise, but make sure you've overcome your addiction before you start or move on to a new exercise routine.
Step 4. Try to be honest about your exercise routine
If you find yourself lying to those closest to you about how often you exercise, you could be addicted. If you have an obsessive personality, try sharing this exercise routine with a friend every now and then. This ensures that you are comfortable with the quantity of your exercise.
Step 5. Don't put too much emphasis on exercise
It is important to plan an exercise routine to maintain physical fitness. However, you should also balance it with your other interests. If you spend a few hours each day exercising, you may be addicted. Try to spend more time paying attention to the people around you, or taking up a hobby you've long forgotten.
