​5 Things to Do Before Bed to Help You Exercise More

We all know exercise is good for us, and especially if we’re needing to drop a few pounds.  But how do we get ourselves motivated to exercise?
 
Getting ready for bed involves more than putting on your pajamas and turning out the lights. Create rituals that will help you stay in shape. Your evening activities can help you get more fit, lose weight and feel more energetic.
 
Below are 5 simple bedtime rituals you can incorporate into your evening routine to help you get motivated to exercise.

​Do These Things Before Bed to Help You Get Motivated to Exercise
 
How can you motivate yourself to leave your nice warm bed and hit the jogging trail? Spend the night before gearing up for your workout.

  Set your alarm

• Going to bed early enables you to have more time in the morning. Resist the snooze button because those few minutes of drowsing are likely to make you groggier.

  Lay out your gear

• Have you ever given up on going to the gym because you couldn’t find your tote bag or water bottle? Try parking everything you need right by the front door so you can grab it on the way out.

  Call a buddy

• You’re more likely to stick to your exercise schedule if a friend is counting on you. Make a date for an early morning dance class or Tai Chi in the park.

  Plan for stormy weather

• Check the weather forecast before you turn in. If cold weather or rain will keep you off the tennis courts, use your treadmill instead.

  Change up your commute

• If you usually drive to work or take the train, maybe you can squeeze in a little more exercise. Decide to park a few blocks further from the office or walk a couple of extra blocks to the subway station.