Maintain a consistent exercise regime

Maintain a consistent exercise regime (Thinkstock photos/Getty Images)

It is very common to start an exercise plan, and then give it up midway due to boredom, lack of time, pressing work deadlines and sheer laziness. Tendencies that lead to the abandonment of a healthy lifestyle cause not only weight gain, but also depression, frustration and an acute sense of inadequacy.

Here are a few simple steps that can help one adhere to an exercise plan and also lead to an increase in motivation levels:

- Start early. Studies show that people who exercise first thing in the morning are more likely to adhere to their fitness and diet plans.

- Exercise with a buddy, this helps maintain accountability, strengthens the friendship and also makes it harder to shirk that extra set of crunches.

- If exercise gets boring, it helps to keep oneself distracted with music, television or a magazine. A zingy playlist of cardio-music is a must.

- Mix it up! Alternate between jogging, aerobics, dance, sports and yoga to make exercising fun.

- Be realistic and set smaller goals. Set a small target at the start of every week - the little successes can play a big role in sustaining motivation levels.