by Mike Visco (Townsquare Media Oneonta Intern)

You’re not going to get the body you want by sitting on the couch all day. It takes time, and it all starts with YOU. First thing’s first, your diet can affect your motivation! If you aren’t eating healthy, than that can play a huge role on why you’re lacking motivation to attempt to make any changes. Here are 5 things you can do on a daily basis to get you in a routine and increase your physical activity:

Take the stairs!!!
I get it if you have to go up 10 floors, but if you only have to go up two or 3 floors, the stairs are the way to go.

Go on walks
If you have a dog this is the perfect excuse to go on a walk and exercise. Also, walking is better for your knees than jogging if you have knee problems.

Drink water!
As strange as it sounds, drinking water and staying hydrated throughout the day reduces feelings of hunger and tests show if you only drink water for 2 weeks straight (with the exception of a coffee here and there) you’re predicted to lose 8-10 pounds

Go on a bike ride
This is a good exercise to cover some ground and get outside along with coming in contact with some scenic views along the way.

Join a gym
If you’re dedicated and motivated to losing weight and getting in shape joining a gym may not be a bad idea. Although you pay for a membership you’re more likely to go because you don’t want to waste your money. Also, you don’t have to go every day, maybe just 3 or 4 times a week for an hour or so. If you get into a consistent routine, you’re going to see results after only a few weeks!

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