Keep moving

Speaking of maintaining momentum, a light next-day workout can do just that and more. Instead of getting into a boom-and-bust cycle — that is, going all-out and then waking up so sore the next day that you can't think about exercising again for a week — make sure to schedule easy sessions just like hard ones.

"Easy" varies from person to person, but it might mean walking or jogging with a friend at a conversational pace, going for a casual bike ride, stretching or doing a light yoga class.

Getting off the couch to undertake a lighter activity the day after a hard one increases blood flow, loosens up tight muscles and can ease soreness (albeit temporarily).

Plus it's a good reminder that healthy physical activity doesn't have to leave you gasping for breath.