If you've been out of the fitness loop for a while, you might be tempted to make up for lost time by working out twice as hard. But all that does is leave you with sore muscles and a fatigued disposition. The best way to reboot your workout motivation is to ease into exercise.

3 ways to ease into exercise:

1. Set exercise goals
What do you hope to accomplish with your new exercise regime? Perhaps you're trying to lose a few pounds, build up some muscle or maybe you just want to get healthier. It helps to remind yourself why exercising is important to you. Creating fitness goals will encourage you to keep exercising and track your progress along the way.

2. Sneak exercise into your schedule
To stay in shape, adults usually need to by active for 30 to 60 minutes every day. If you're struggling to find the time and energy to exercise, try squeezing it in throughout the day. Get your heart rate up by going for a walk during your lunch break or burn some extra calories by ditching elevators and taking the stairs. Once your energy levels are up, you'll be extra motivated to take on more challenging workouts.

3. Make exercise fun
It's easier to start exercising when you approach it with enthusiasm. Think of energetic activities that you love to do. It doesn't matter if it's walking your dog, jogging in the park or going dancing with friends -- as long as you're working up a sweat. Once you begin to enjoy exercising, you'll be less inclined to fall back into a fitness slump.

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