Making a Plan to Be More Active

Some people can plunge into a new project without planning ahead. Others find that writing a plan is helpful and keeps them on track. Here are a few reasons why an exercise and physical activity plan might be a good idea.

A plan can help you:

• Stay motivated to include physical activity as part of your daily life. Get an exercise buddy or buddies to help keep you motivated and maintain your exercise routine.
• Be organized so you can fit exercise and physical activity into your current lifestyle.
• Get ready to be more active. Do you need to get new exercise shoes or clothes? Do you need equipment, like weights or a tennis racket? Will you have expenses (like health club fees) that you need to fit into your budget?

What to include in your physical activity plan:

• Your reasons for being physically active.
• Your short- and long-term goals.
• The activities you plan to do.
• When, where, and with whom you will be active.
• Things you need to do to get started and keep going.

Make it a plan that works.

• Be realistic based on how physically active you are now.
• Be specific in the details.
• Include a weekly worksheet that details your activities.

Review and update your plan regularly. Adjust your plan as needed.

Download the Tip Sheet