Exercise Excuses

 Exercise Excuses  We all make them. Whether you skip your morning run because it’s “too cold outside,” skimp on your clean diet because there’s “nothing else to eat,” or forgo the gym altogether because you “don’t have time,” these little lies aren’t helping you or your health.

Here are some common exercise excuses and how to overcome them:

“I don’t have time.”

How much television do you watch? Instead of flipping on the TV, try heading out the door a few nights a week for a long walk and some fresh air.

“But I’ll miss my favorite shows!”

If giving up your downtime doesn’t appeal to you, why not exercise on the commercials? Walk in place, jump rope or do some sit-ups. Most shows run about 20 minutes of commercials per hour: just what you need to get in a little exercise.

“I don’t watch TV, I work long hours.”

Make small changes throughout the day to help get you on your feet. Instead of emailingyour coworker
down the hall, walk over to them. Instead of taking the escalator, use thestairs. Once an hour, close your

door and do a few pushups. Leave the office for lunchand walk to a nearby food joint (extra points if you pack your own healthy meal!). These

little changes can go a long way.

“That sounds exhausting – I can barely stay awake at work as it is.”

Believe it or not, working out actually gives you more energy. Moving around releases

feel-good endorphins and gets your circulation going. Once you get active, your fatigue will

likely disappear.

“Exercise is boring.”

We understand the dilemma – not everyone wants to run alone for an hour. The key is to

pick an activity you really enjoy and to do it with friends. Think outside the box: try

skating, dancing or gardening. Join a sports league. Play tennis, try golfing or take a

nature hike. You don’t need a gym and an iPod to get active (Exercise Excuses) .

“None of my friends like to workout.”

Then find some who do! Sign up for group yoga or kickboxing classes at your local gym

and make an effort to meet new people. By surrounding yourself with active friends, you’ll

feel more encouraged to get up and move.

“This all sounds too hard. I’ll just end up quitting.”

If the thought of failure is holding you back, set small, attainable goals. This way, you’re

more likely to feel like a success. Share your goals with friends and family to keep you

motivated and earn support.

It’s time you stopped making excuses and started getting active. The hardest part is taking that first step, but once you put away all those negative doubts, you’ll be well on your way.

Exercise Excuses