PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK

Starting a fitness regimen with no strategy for bumps in the road is like filling a cup with a hole in the bottom.

You’re psyched about exercising at least three times a week and eating better, then that pesky thing called life gets the best of you, draining your excitement like the water that’s being siphoned through the hole.

I wish I could say I lost count of the number of squats I did this morning, instead of losing count of the number of times I told myself to get out of bed to do said squats. 

Whether it’s a lack of energy, an incredibly hectic schedule or the fear of getting started in the first place (picture standing at the bottom of a giant staircase, looking up), there’s always something that keeps some of us from following through with getting — and staying — healthy.

The last few months have been particularly rough with enough curveballs hurled at me to make my head spin. Which, in turn, sent my excitement right into left field.

So what can I (and you) do to get moving?

Researching ways to increase your motivation, as well as asking a medical professional and a personal trainer can be a starting point. Healthline has some great ideas.

Prioritizing a routine is what’s best for me. This may not work for everyone, but if I actually schedule time for a workout, I am more inclined to do it. As soon as I’m done typing this, I plan to add two or three days a week in my phone’s calendar to start.

Begin with small goals. Climbers who summited Everest didn’t start their careers in the Himalayas.

My first small goal is to increase my water intake. I just bought myself a mint green insulated tumbler to bring to work. If some of you are groaning at the thought of drinking more plain water, you aren’t the only ones. Try some recipes for infused water. I have also found that cucumber water is very refreshing, and it doesn’t make me dread upping my fluid intake.

Also, find a workout tribe to help get you moving. Call up your best friend and ask if they want to go for a walk when the weather breaks or join a Facebook fitness group. It’s much easier to get motivated when you have others in your corner cheering you on.

Remember, you aren’t alone in this journey. I’m right there with you. We got this!