I don't have time to exercise... I don't have the energy to exercise... I don't know how to exercise... I lack the motivation... When it comes to exercise, you might be your own worst enemy. We come up with elaborate and creative ways to think up various reasons for staying inactive. It seems that there are always a number of obstacles in our way, keeping us too busy or too tired to exercise. Here are some ways to combat some of the most common excuses.
"I have no time." Make time! A day does not pass without new research supporting great benefits of exercise. Everyone is busy. But if some world leaders can manage to squeeze exercise into their schedules, you can as well. Be an exercise opportunist: try morning routine, exercise during lunch hour or right after work. If you watch TV, an average TV show has about 15 minutes of commercials. Use them to your advantage. You will feel better about yourself and be more effective, happier, and most importantly healthier. A study shows that 44 percent of adults who almost never exercise say they always feel rushed, while only 22 percent of those who exercise daily feel the same way. Always make living healthy your number one priority.
"No pain, no gain." This is an old fashioned notion, and with new information and research, we know that participation in a moderate intensity, progressive exercise is what most people need to gain most benefits.
"I don't know how to exercise." Make it simple! Working out doesn't require a new wardrobe or master's degree in exercise science. Start with activities such as walking, climbing up stairways, or gardening. As you progress and look for variety and challenge, pick up a new sport or hire a qualified personal trainer to introduce you to safe and effective ways to exercise.
"Exercise is boring." Then make it fun and challenging! No two workouts should ever be the same, neither should the intensity and time. Don't get stuck in the same routine day after day. It will get boring that way. Rather, think of creative ways to keep your exercise routine fresh and challenging. Subscribe to your favorite fitness magazine, join a sports league, find a dedicated partner, and vary length, intensity, volume, location and exercises to keep it motivating. If you crave competition, seek out races, body make over contests, or strength competition in your community, and follow through on your commitment. Try new fitness equipment, such as a heart rate monitor or a pedometer. As you reach milestones, don't forget to reward yourself with a treat once in a while, at it will keep you motivated and focused. Spend a day in the spa, buy that dress you've always wanted, or simply take a day off from exercise.
"I don't need to exercise." No matter your current level of fitness, exercise should be a lifelong habit that never stops. It may easy to rest on your laurels, and become complacent. Don't! All the benefits that you might have gained through strength and cardiovascular exercise in the past will start to shrink fast! As time passes, it will become more difficult to get started on a regular routine, as you will be discouraged by your diminished strength and the prospect of an uphill climb. If you feel like you might be heading down that path, no matter the reason, make sure you recognize it and counteract it by getting back on track as soon as possible.
