How To Begin A Fitness Routine That Sticks In 5 Simple Steps
- Apr 16, 2025
- 3 min read
Written by Jennifer Jones, Pilates & Yoga Teacher
Jennifer Jones is a Pilates, Yoga, and Meditation teacher and founder of JenZen Wellness, a holistic health and wellness company. She specialises in supporting women over 40 to prioritise their health and embrace their true selves. Jennifer offers both online and in-person classes and coaching sessions.
How many times have you said to yourself, “Today’s the day I begin exercising!” but somehow, you never do? Or you start, but after two weeks, the motivation fizzles. I’m sure you had the best of intentions and were certain this time would be different, but for one reason or another, it just didn’t stick.
The truth is that starting anything new takes time and consistency. Intentions are great, but without action, that’s all they’ll ever be. The good news? You “can” start a fitness routine that feels manageable and, more importantly, one that you’ll actually want to keep doing. Let’s get into it.
1. Know your why
Before you lace up your sneakers, get clear on your reason for starting. Do you want to feel stronger? Sleep better? Manage stress? Boost your mood or energy levels? When you know your “why”, it becomes your anchor, the thing you return to on days when your motivation dips.
Write it down as an affirmation or call to action. Stick it on your bathroom mirror, fridge, laptop, or even set it as a phone wallpaper. Your “why” isn’t just a reason to start; it’s your reason to keep going.
2. Do what you enjoy
This might be the most underrated step, but it’s essential. You’re far more likely to stay consistent with something you “actually” enjoy. So, what feels fun? Is it yoga or Pilates? Hiking or swimming? Do you secretly love dance or have fond memories of roller skating as a kid?
If you're not sure, explore! Take a trial class, try a YouTube workout, or dust off that hula hoop. It doesn’t have to be just one thing; you can mix it up. The key is to choose a movement that brings you joy, not dread.
3. Make it fit your life
Let’s be real: if your workout plan feels like a massive disruption, it won’t last. Look at your current schedule and find small pockets of time. It might be:
A class before or after work (bonus if it’s close to home or the office)
Working out at home with a treadmill, elliptical, or mat-based workout
Following a fitness app or YouTube channel with short, effective classes
Booking private sessions that come to you conveniently and personalised
Think of your fitness routine as something you’re “adding in”, not something that has to “take over”.
4. Create accountability
Even with the best plan, there will be days when you just don’t feel like it. That’s normal. This is where accountability comes in.
Find a partner who’s committed to their own wellness and will lovingly call you out when you want to give up. This could be a friend, your partner, a co-worker, or your trainer. Knowing someone else is cheering you on (and showing up with you!) makes all the difference.
5. Be flexible and kind to yourself
Life happens. You’ll get busy. You might miss a workout. That doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Give yourself grace. Instead of throwing in the towel, just reset and try again. Progress isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being as consistent as possible.
If you’re tired, choose something gentle. If your week goes sideways, shorten your session or move your body in a different way. You’re building a habit that evolves with your life, not one that competes with it.
Starting a new fitness routine doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Begin where you are. Focus on small, meaningful actions. Choose a movement that lights you up. Be patient with yourself and celebrate the wins, especially the small ones.
Your routine doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful. What matters is that you “begin” and that you keep showing up for yourself one step at a time.
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Read more from Jennifer Jones
Jennifer Jones, Pilates & Yoga Teacher
Jennifer Jones is a certified Stott Pilates® Matwork Instructor, registered E-RYT 200HR, 500HR Rasa Yoga teacher, and a CNTRD Wellness Meditation teacher. For many years, health and fitness have been an important part of her life in helping manage frequent back pain. As a teacher, Jennifer's passion is to educate and empower her students and clients by providing them with useful tools to support their well-being. Her classes are inclusive, creative, fun, and educational. Jennifer is a highly experienced pilates and yoga instructor who holds multiple certifications including specialties in Group Matwork, Core®, Hot Yoga, and Yin Yoga.
