Let’s be real – starting a workout routine is easy. Sticking to it? That’s the tricky part. You get the motivation, you buy new gym clothes, maybe even crush the first week. But then life happens. Work piles up, your couch gets extra comfy, and suddenly it’s been three weeks since your last workout.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. The truth is, building a routine that lasts isn’t about willpower or waking up at 5am every day. It’s about making your workouts fit you—your life, your energy, and your goals.

Here’s how to do it.

1. Start Where You Are—Not Where You Think You Should Be

You don’t need to jump into 6-days-a-week training with hour-long sessions. If you’re new (or just getting back), aim for 2-3 days a week. Short, simple workouts are perfectly okay. Consistency matters more than intensity.

Pro Tip: Something is always better than nothing. 20 minutes counts.

2. Find What You Actually Enjoy

Not everyone loves lifting weights or running on a treadmill. And guess what? You don’t have to.

Try different things – strength training, spin classes, HIIT, bodyweight circuits, boxing, yoga. See what makes you feel good, not just sore.

Because the best workout is the one you’ll do again.

3. Make It Stupid Simple

We tend to overcomplicate fitness. Your routine doesn’t need to be fancy. Pick a few basic moves (think squats, pushups, planks, rows) and do them consistently.

Here’s a quick starter structure:

• Day 1: Full body strength (30–40 mins)

• Day 2: Cardio or active recovery (walking, cycling, yoga)

• Day 3: Full body strength or a class you like

That’s it. Simple = sustainable.

4. Schedule It Like a Meeting

If it’s not on the calendar, it’s too easy to skip. Treat your workout time like an appointment—because it is one. With yourself.

Block it off. Set a reminder. Protect that time.

5. Track Progress (But Not Just the Scale)

Don’t just look at weight. Track how many pushups you can do, how fast you recover, how you feel after workouts. Progress comes in many forms—celebrate them all.

You’ll be surprised how motivating it is to see your strength grow over time.

6. Give Yourself Grace

Some weeks will be better than others. That’s normal. One missed workout doesn’t mean you’ve failed—just pick up where you left off.

Fitness isn’t all-or-nothing. It’s all about momentum.

7. Make It Social 

Some of us thrive with workout buddies or group classes. Others prefer headphones and solo vibes. Do what keeps you accountable and energized.

If you’re a GymIt member, don’t be afraid to say hey to someone or ask a staff member for tips. We’re all in this together.

Bottom Line

A workout routine that sticks is one that feels doable. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress. Start small, stay consistent, and let it evolve with you.

You don’t need to be extreme. You just need to be consistent.