Exercise will be one of the most important parts of your day. Missionary work can be exhausting and often takes its toll on your body. Eating nutritious foods and exercising for at least 15 minutes every day will help you to be a healthier, happier missionary.
Sometimes it can be hard to get a good workout in the short amount of time missionaries are allotted. There are also obstacles such as lack of energy and motivation, not to mention your companion's bad attitude. Some of the following ways can help you to get the exercise you need in a way that you will enjoy.
1. Make personal or companion goals.
You are more likely to be successful if you set goals and work to reach them. You can set your own personal fitness goals or even set some with your companion. Exercise together, and occasionally exercise in groups with other sisters on preparation day. It will motivate you to work harder.
2. Exercise first thing when you get up.
If you wait to exercise, it may never happen. Perhaps set your alarm 10 minutes early so you have extra time that doesn't cut into your exercise time to get out of bed, pray, and change clothes. If you follow the missionary schedule with exactness and use this time to exercise, the Lord will bless with you with greater strength to serve throughout the rest of the day.
3. Make a list of a variety of exercises that you can try.
Make a list of different types of exercises that you can do both inside and outside the apartment. Include both cardio and strength training. Some examples are running, biking, jump roping, dancing, doing insanity exercises, weight lifting, resistance band training, yoga, and stretching.
4. Do exercises that you enjoy.
You won't be very motivated to work out if you hate the exercises you are doing. You don't have to love exercise to stay fit, but try to find some things that you enjoy doing and still give you a good workout. You can have a dance-off with your companion, run or march in place, or get together with other missionaries on preparation day to play sports. Have fun!
5. Exercise to music.
Music has been proven to motivate people when they exercise by stimulating the endorphins in the brain. You can listen to church approved music while exercising in the apartment to make it more of an exciting morning routine.
6. Reward yourself for completing your goals.
When you complete your exercise goals, treat yourself. Buy a new piece clothing or souvenir, go on a fun outing with other missionaries on preparation day, or plan a fun family home evening. Reward yourself for your hard work.
Always remember that the Lord will help you. Taking care of our bodies is a commandment, and if you are consistent God will give you the energy you need to keep your body healthy. We are promised that when we keep the word of wisdom we be able to "run and not be weary, and...walk and not faint" (D&C 89:20).
