Happy Fitness Friday! Since my brother headed back to uni, I have been struggling to motivate myself to work out and keep my exercise routine on track. I’ve also been swamped with work, blogging and the stress of applying for my first full-time job so I wanted to put together five ways to get back on track, both physically and mentally:

1. Take time for yourself

Sometimes it’s important to take time for yourself, away from the stress of the world. I like to make a cup of tea and my current favourite is this blend from Strangeways Road Tea, a new opening in Cambridge. I particularly love this Ramsey Court blend, which is slightly smokey and full of flavour. I love nothing more than taking 15 minutes to make a cup of tea and catch up on emails or read a chapter of a book before I charge into the day ahead.

2. Little and often

If I’ve had a break from exercise, I am terrible at going back to the gym all guns blazing. Although this may seems like a great idea, I often overdo it, resulting in the need for another break which means my new gym routine immediately fails. I’ve discovered that easing myself back into exercise, perhaps just by starting with a short 15 minute run or half hour gym session, is much more effective in the long run than a killer two hour legs set.

3. Clear the fridge

Carbs are my weakness; give me bread, pasta, crackers, cake or biscuits and I simply can’t resist. However, if the food isn’t in the house, I am unlikely to head out to specifically buy something for my cravings, and instead find a healthier alternative. Therefore, I find the best way to eat healthier is simply to ensure I don’t have any naughty foods in the house.

4. Drink Water

I know I don’t drink enough water so perhaps if I keep mentioning it on my blog, I might start doing it myself! Keeping hydrated is so important and having a bottle of water by your side is going to give you a boost, as well as keeping you focused on that health kick. I personally love adding lemons and limes to my water to give it a citrus flavour – although this always results in comments about the appearance of my water bottle at work!

5. Get a Buddy

As I mentioned, I find it so much harder to stay motivated when I am only working out on my own. If I have promised a friend I will attend a class with them or have a gym session together, I am far more likely to go and do it. Luckily, I got chatting with some blogger buddies about this problem and Sarah from Salaco had the genius idea to create a blogger fitness challenge.Corinne, who I always rely on to inspire me to workout, has designed a #Fitmas Christmas Fitness Challenge to keep you motivated and get fit throughout December and I can’t wait to get involved next month! It’s going to be a great way to keep myself motivated and I’m excited to see how everyone enjoys the challenge.

What are your tips to stay on track? Will you be getting involved in #Fitmas?