I’ll let you in on a big insecurity of mine: I am not very athletic. Throughout high school and college, I remembered a lot of my friends getting accepted into sports teams. But no matter how hard I tried, it just never worked out for me. Eventually, I used my insecurity as an excuse not to work out, nervous I would look silly or feel like I didn’t belong. Fast forward a few years, and the pandemic hit.
As our world turned upside down, I was working long hours from home and desperate to get some movement into my routine. During this time, I trialed a bunch of virtual classes until I finally found something I loved: barre. I felt my body getting stronger with each class, and I am proud that 2023 will be my third year of working out consistently! So take it from an amateur. If you’re wondering how to create an exercise routine you’ll love, you’re not alone. It can happen with time, and here are tips for finishing the year strong!
Thank you NEWAI for sponsoring this post. This post makes use of affiliate links, which may result in a commission if you purchase through them, at no additional cost to you.
Explore Fitness Activities You Enjoy this Holiday.
The holidays can mean a time of feasting with family and friends, but it can also become a time of burn-out! Exercise is a great way to reduce stress, and boost energy levels. Take the time explore different activities if you are getting started with building your fitness routine. In my experience, the holidays are no better time to start. Many studios will offer discount trials before you commit to a membership in the new year.
If a studio isn’t the best fit, you can also stream free videos online, or grab a workout buddy! It is much easier to commit to an exercise routine when you find something you enjoy.
Set Realistic Goals Around Your Schedule.
Rather than burn out (and give up), set realistic goals that work with your schedule. For example, for me, Monday nights and Saturday mornings are usually calm times. Pinning down available times throughout the week is a huge part of how to create an exercise routine that works for you!
The next part of my goal was deciding the frequency. At minimum, I commit to working out three times a week, and more if my schedule allows it. Remember that the goal is something you can work your way towards too!
Dress with Confidence!
I always believe that a good outfit affects my confidence, and workout clothes are no exception. When I dress in a set I feel good in, it gives me the confidence to tackle a hard workout. Not to mention, high-quality fabrics leave you feeling comfortable and supported when you’re exercising. One high-quality workout brand I can count on is NEIWAI. Their pieces come in easy neutrals that can be endlessly mix-and-matched, and move with you.
NEIWAI is a brand that is both functional and aesthetic, and what draws me to them (as a fellow textile scientist) is their thoughtful fabric choices. Their sports bras have second-skin comfort, without feeling constricting. I love how soft and supportive their Mousse product line is for low-impact workouts like barre. The following pieces have been on heavy rotation for my workout:
- Mousse Light Support Long Sports Bra: Flattering center seam design with supportive cups.
- Dance Wrap Bra Top: Unique wrap-around design.
- Mousse Light Support High Waist Leggings: Comes with an inner pocket at the waistband to hold cards, or keys.
Use code ‘STYLEDBYSCIENCE‘ to get 20% Off your NEIWAI Order.
NEIWAI’s molded cups are removable. I immediately noticed that NEIWAI bras use a denser foam than other sports bras I own, which just have a thin, spongy layer. I am wearing a size S in all pieces, and would recommend sizing up.
Be Flexible When Sticking to an Exercise Routine.
When I first started on my fitness journey, I reminded myself that consistency is more important than perfection. Whether it is modifying your workout or your schedule, make the small adjustments you need to keep going!
During busy weeks, I sign up for my barre studio’s virtual class at home to save on commute time. Sometimes, I would even turn on my Zoom camera for additional accountability to finish the class.
I have also grown more comfortable to doing modifications during a workout. Don’t compare yourself to other people in class, and instead pay attention to what feels right for your body.
I love barre because you can easily adapt it at-home with minimal set-up. I am wearing the NEIWAI Mousse Light Support Long Sports Bra, and Mousse Light Support High Waist Leggings in Mushroom Size S.
Reward Yourself for Showing Up.
Celebrate mini milestones for investing in yourself. Maybe it is taking yourself out for a nice coffee after class, or gifting yourself a NEIWAI activewear set this holiday 😉 These goals are personal to you, and you deserve to feel proud for hitting them!
I hope you found all of these tips on how to create an exercise routine both realistic and helpful! As someone who was never fond of exercising, I am here to share that you can find a workout you enjoy and feeling confident doing so.
Thank you NEIWAI for sponsoring this post.
I totally relate to avoiding working out because you don’t feel athletic! What a wonderful accomplishment to be consistently doing so for three years!!