When your fitness routine is unorganized, being consistent can feel harder than ever. One bad day turns into two, which turns into twelve, and before you know it, you’re not sure if you’re ever exercised a day in your life. (It’s that thing with the sweating, right?)

Luckily, we’ve created 10 fitness hacks to get you more organized and more consistent with your daily workout routine. No need to thank us, because if we can turn even half of you into less of a hot mess, that will be thanks enough.

Let’s jump right into it.

1. Schedule It Like a Meeting

If it’s not on your calendar, does it even exist? Block off some time for exercise each day so you’re not left disappointed when it’s 9:30 pm and you still haven’t worked out. (You missed the window, it’s over!) This can also help limit distractions so you won’t have to worry about anything popping up at the last minute. Sorry world! You have an appointment with your sneakers and you can’t reschedule…

2. Keep Your Workout Equipment in Plain Sight

This could be helpful in a lot of different ways. For one, laying out your workout clothes the night before can help make it easier to exercise the next day. (As long as you don’t leave them laying out after you come back too. A pile of sweaty clothes is not cute.)

Also, when you keep your other workout equipment out of sight, it can make it much easier to forget about exercising altogether. On the other hand, if your yoga mat or free weights are in a place where you’ll see them every day, it can be a good reminder to stay consistent. Plus, it removes the small, mental hurdle of continuing to take it out of the closet. (It’s the little things, after all.)

3. Do It First Thing in the Morning

Since we’re scheduling our workout time now, why not get it over with first thing in the morning? Especially if you’re someone whose days tend to spiral into chaos, get your movement in before the rest of the world can interfere. Even a 10-minute walk in the morning can set the tone for the rest of your day, and you’ll feel good knowing you’ve accomplished your fitness goals early. We understand this might now be possible for everyone, but if you can, give it a try and see how you feel.

4. Pair Workouts with Something (or Someone) You Love

Make your workout feel less like a chore and more like a treat. Only listen to your favorite podcast or audiobook while walking or running. This way, when you want to do those things, you’ll start lacing up your shoes without even thinking. 

Even hanging out with friends can be part of your fitness routine. And hey, even if they’re busy, a walk-and-talk phone call works just as well. Because, you know what they say? Time flies when your friend has some hot goss’ about your ex’s new girlfriend that he moved in with after only dating for two months!!! (Just us? Never mind, then…)

5. Make It a Micro-Workout

So, you’ve got a busy schedule? Not an excuse! Sneak in short bursts of movement throughout your day: 10 squats while your coffee brews, a few lunges during commercial breaks, or a quick dance break between emails. (Okay, maybe not that last one. Unless people at your job are very cool, we can save the dancing for later.)

6. Have a Go-To Lazy Day Workout

Keep a list of easy workouts for days when you're just not feeling it. Could be 5-10 minute yoga before bed, or a short walk after lunch. You don’t have to be a gladiator every day. Because as long as you keep moving and continue to stay active, you will never be truly lazy. (No matter what your weekly screen time says!)

7. Don’t Be Afraid to Mix It Up

Hate running? Then don’t do it! Yes, that is allowed! Find a series of workouts that you enjoy and rotate so you never get bored of them. If you’re tired of walking then try a yoga workout. If you’re done with yoga, try swimming. Can’t swim? Maybe rowing is more your speed. (Just wear a life jacket, please.)

8. Track Your Daily Mood!

Take some time to notice how you feel after a workout, not just how many steps you logged. Has your stress levels gotten better since running? Do you find yourself to be cheerier after a hike? These are all important signs to notice during exercise, and by using this information, you’ll be able to discover what works best for you, and how to stay more consistent with your training.

9. Reward Yourself for Consistency

Treat yourself for sticking to your routine. Perhaps some new workout gear (or an ice cream sundae) is in order for the hard work you’ve been doing. A system of rewards can be a great motivator to help you continue your fitness journey week by week. 

10. Give Yourself Permission to Rest

Rest days aren’t cheating, they’re part of the plan. Building a sustainable routine means listening to your body and giving it a break when it needs one. Therefore, you don’t have to feel guilty every time you don’t get a workout in. Your workout will see you tomorrow, it’s not going anywhere.

Bonus: Join a Stridekick Step Challenge

Everything's more fun with friends and a little competition. Whether you’re logging steps solo or syncing with a group on Stridekick, having a challenge that keeps you moving can be all it takes to get you coming back for more.

Download the Stridekick app to choose from five different challenge modes, and get even more options when you upgrade to Stridekick Pro. Turns out, the ultimate hack was right in front of you this whole time and you didn’t even know it…

Final Thoughts ✨

The secret to sticking to a fitness routine doesn’t require some big process, but it’s making the process work for you. That means keeping it fun, flexible, and something you actually enjoy. So, create your next Stridekick challenge, and let’s build healthier habits one activity at a time. 

Get ready, your 8 am meeting is waiting for you…