People often think that to start exercising, they need to devote a lot of time. But that’s not necessarily true! Get started with just 15 minutes a day. In this article, we’ll discuss the easiest way to start exercising 15 minutes a day, the benefits, and tips for success in daily exercise.
Don’t despise the start of small beginnings.
Zach. 4:10
What is the biggest challenge to daily exercise?
Lack of time is the number one reason I hear why people don’t exercise. It’s true, our busy schedules leave little margin for exercise. That’s why 15-minute workouts are a great way to exercise daily. Most of us (myself included) spend way more than 15 minutes scrolling the internet. Unless you’re going online to do a workout video, put down the phone.
Why is daily exercise important?
Making room for daily exercise, even 15 minutes, has a huge impact on our mental, physical and emotional health. Daily exercise benefits are:
- Improved heart health
- Lowers stress
- Better memory & thinking
- Treats & prevents depression
- Builds muscle
- Increases metabolism
- Energy boost
- Clear skin
- Healthy digestion
- Quality sleep
- Honors God with the body He gave us!
How to get started with exercising daily?
Start simple, start small. You don’t need fancy equipment or a gym membership. A daily 15-minute walk is a great place to start. You can do it first thing in the morning, on a lunch break, or after dinner. Walking is also a great time to pray, merging fitness and faith. Noah often “walked with God” (Genesis 6). Worship, prayer and scripture meditation are all great practices while walking. Your spirit, body, and mind will all be strengthened and renewed.
The 21 Day Pilates & Prayer plan combines 15-minute Pilates videos, walks, and scripture meditation. This is a great option if you’re looking for a structured plan.
Tips for success in daily exercise
- Pray! If you’re lacking motivation, ask God to help you.
- Start small. 15 minutes may not seem like enough, however building a daily habit is key for long term success. You’re better off starting small and being successful.
- Do it first thing in the morning. It’s easy to put it on the back burner as the day gets busy. Morning exercise starts your day physically and mentally strong.
- Try different types of exercise until it clicks. Hate running? Try swimming. Gyms intimidating? Pilates and circuit ballet home workouts may be a better fit.
- Set out workout clothes the night before, put them on first thing.
- Learn what the Bible says about exercise. These Faith & Fitness quotes will keep you going.
- Schedule it in your physical calendar. If you’re married put it into a shared schedule, either paper or digital. This way your spouse knows your unavailable for other things during that time.
- Have a plan. If you need one, start here.
- Be accountable. Share your goals with a friend or family member. Better yet, invite them to join you.
Frequently Asked Questions
The last thing you need to know about starting exercise
You can do it!
