How to Make Fitness a Lifestyle — Not Just a Short-Term Goal
Let’s be honest — it’s easy to get excited about fitness when you set a new goal or start a challenge. But what happens after the initial motivation fades? Fitness isn’t just about reaching a goal — it’s about creating habits that support your well-being for life.
If you’ve ever struggled with starting and stopping your fitness routine, you’re not alone. For many years I exercised because I knew it would help me lose weight, but I didn’t enjoy it. It wasn’t until I learned how to separate the difference between exercising to increase my fitness level (improved strength and endurance) instead of focusing on the way I looked, I began to feel good about my body because of what it could DO rather than how it LOOKED. That is when the magic happened, I fell in love with fitness! That was 17 years ago.
Here are 5 additional tips to help you shift your mindset and stay committed for the long haul:
1. Focus on Consistency Over Intensity
You don’t have to go all-out every day. What matters most is showing up regularly. Whether it’s a walk around the block, a group class, or 20 minutes of stretching — small, consistent actions build long-term results.
2. Find Movement You Enjoy
Fitness shouldn’t feel like a punishment. Explore different activities until you find something that makes you feel good — dancing, swimming, weightlifting, yoga, pickleball — if it gets you moving and smiling, it counts!
3. Make It Social
Working out with others can boost motivation and make fitness fun. Invite a friend, join a class, or try a team sport at your local Y. Being part of a community helps you stay engaged and accountable.
4. Set Meaningful (and Realistic) Goals
Short-term goals can be helpful, but lasting change comes from focusing on how you want to feel — strong, energized, confident, balanced. Set goals that align with your lifestyle and values, not just a number on a scale.
5. Give Yourself a Lot of Grace
Life gets busy, and there will be days when your routine gets off track — and that’s okay. Fitness is a journey, not a race. Be kind to yourself and focus on progress, not perfection.
We also change! Injuries, stress, and aging will all impact how we move and what we can do. Fitness will change over the years but never stop being beneficial.
At the YMCA, we’re here to support you at every stage of your journey — not just with workouts, but with encouragement, community, and programs that meet you where you are. Let’s make fitness something that fits into your life, not something you have to squeeze in.
You’ve got this — and we’ve got you!
Amber C., Buena Vista YMCA Express Senior Program Director