Home workouts have always been an answer to the problem of a busy lifestyle. The convenience of having the option to squeeze in that physical activity before or after work, or even while you watch your evening TV is an appealing option. Plus, with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw businesses move to a work-from-home format, and many gyms or fitness classes, closed, canceled, or altered. Now more than ever, home workouts are on the rise and a staple in many people’s daily routines. 

The only downside? With no class or location to hold you accountable for getting that exercise, it can be hard to find the discipline to stick to a home workout schedule.
Here are 4 tips to help you build a routine…
Plan workouts in advance. 
When you’re feeling demotivated to workout, nothing makes it harder than having to think of what exercises to do. Set yourself up for success by planning out your workouts in advance each week so that you don’t have to think about it when the time comes—you can just do it. For example, if you aim to workout 4 times per week, decide in advance that the split will be cardio on day 1, yoga on day 2, upper body on day 3, lower body on day 4, and then 3 rest days. With so many resources for at home fitness online and on social media, find people you admire, follow them, save the workouts they recommend, and try them all out as part of your plan.
Track your workouts 
Use an app, calendar, or daily photo to track your workouts and your progress so that you build the dedication to your workout journey. With the ability to see how consistent you have been and the progress you have made, you will feel proud of each run you do that is faster than the last, or each lift that is a new personal record. By keeping track, you will see the benefits in front of you and rekindle that motivation, daily. 
Pick activities that you enjoy
If you know you will dread a type of exercise, try to avoid making that the staple in your routine. Do you hate running? Build a workout schedule made up of weightlifting, bike riding, dancing, or stretching. By picking activities you naturally find enjoyable, you will look forward to your workouts as a time for mental clarity and fun and will be less likely to decide to bail at the last minute. 
Set realistic goals 
Most importantly, set goals that are within reach and adjusted to your own fitness levels and lifestyle. If you are someone who works 60-hours a week, don’t set an expectation for yourself that you will get in a 2-hour workout every day. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about doing something. If your schedule means you will only be able to fit in 20 minutes of exercise, adjust your expectations, and make the most of the opportunities you do have. 
Just remember…usually, choosing to get into your exercise clothes is half the battle.