14 Oct Five-minute rule will get you going

You’ve just arrived home from a long, hard day at work and it’s time to get a workout in. The problem is, you just really, really don’t feel like exercising.

Try the Five-Minute Rule to get you going.
Get on the treadmill or exercise bike even if you’re still in your work clothes. Walk or ride at a light pace for five minutes. Your heart rate will start to increase and your body chemistry will start to get you into the workout mode.
Ninety percent of the time, you’ll follow through with a near-complete or complete workout.
If after five minutes of this mini warmup you’re still not in the mood, then you know what, you really didn’t want to work out that day. Take the day off, don’t beat yourself up too badly, but try to get back on track the next day.
Chances are, though, you’ll be ready to go after five minutes. Go get changed and have at it.
And pat yourself on the back because the most important, but hardest to do part of staying fit is consistency. And the five-minute rule is a great tip I’ve learned to help people stay on track.

At Home Fitness consultant Aaron Dorksen’s blog deals with a variety of fitness topics, ranging from workout tips, motivational ideas and feature stories on how exercise impacts people’s lives. E-mail him with comments, questions or ideas for future blogs at <a href="mailto:aaron@athomefitness.com