What Makes A Habit

First, why is it important, and how does it pertain to fitness. Simply, if there's an activity you don't normally do, how do you expect to now do it routinely. Habits are imparted with everything. It helps the brain run more efficiently. Still, with the key factors that make up a habit, it's possible to do an activity and not make it into a habit. Also, bad habits can form too. When it comes to fitness habits are key to success. Knowing this, let's break down the habit into the 'habit loop' to see how habits form.

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3 Key Components

1. Cue 

2. Routine

3. Reward

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1. Cue - Triggers the habit, kicks the brain into automatic mode.

2. Routine - The brain then automatically sparks the behavior (physical, mental, or emotional) associated with the habit. 

3. Reward - Positive reinforcement closes the loop, a prize, and engrains the habit in the brain as "worth remembering in the future". 

 

ex. Habit(run):

Cue - Sees running shoes

Routine - Goes for a run

Reward - (literally anything) Sweet treat after, play a video game, dopamine release, adrenaline release, scenic viewpoint, completion satisfaction, and etc. 

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These three pillars can help build any habit, and with help can change old "bad" habits into good ones. Anyone can be fit, and there are a ton of activities to help one get there. Learn to find what habits make you, understand what works and what doesn't, and find your path to fitness doing the activity you love. 

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