Fall is closing in, and for many, that means getting back to a consistent fitness routine after a summer filled with outdoor activities and social events. But getting back on track can be a mental challenge as well as a physical one. Stephanie Mansour, personal trainer and CEO of Step It Up with Steph, offers some mental hacks to help overcome the mental hurdle of recommitting to exercise.

One key tip from Mansour is to start with mini workouts. Instead of diving back into hour-long gym sessions a few days a week, she suggests starting small with 5-minute workouts. This not only makes it easier to get started but also helps build motivation over time.

Mansour also emphasizes the importance of setting attainable goals. By making goals more manageable and achievable, you can build confidence and momentum to keep going. This approach allows for progress and success to build over time.

Another mental hack from Mansour is adopting a “go with the flow” attitude. Being flexible and adaptable in your fitness routine can help you stay on track even when things don’t go as planned. This mindset shift can prevent feelings of defeat and help you find alternative ways to stay active.

Making skipping a workout a conscious decision is another tip from Mansour. By actively choosing whether or not to exercise, you hold yourself accountable and make it more difficult to skip a workout. Simple tricks like keeping your gym bag in sight can make a big difference in sticking to your routine.

Lastly, Mansour advises against the “all or nothing” mentality. Instead of going all in or completely giving up, she suggests looking at each day as a series of choices. This perspective allows for more flexibility and forgiveness, making it easier to stay consistent in the long run.

By incorporating these mental hacks into your fitness routine, you can overcome the mental obstacles that may be holding you back and make exercise a consistent part of your daily life.