We're told, "Just do it!" For some, it's that easy–exercise is a regular part of life. For others, it's a “shoulda, woulda, coulda” mind battle. We were built to move, so why does it seem so hard sometimes to get motivated? Most people rationalize why they can't exercise–too tired, too much work to do, more important things to do, injury, ____________ (What is yours? Fill in the blank). It's a silly thing! The biggest single reason why people don't exercise is simply that they just don't do it!
Maybe you know exercise is important, but perhaps you are struggling.
Here are some suggestions:
- If you are injured or have chronic pain, seek professional help so you can be active again. If you are prone to pain and injury, or if you exercise more often or more vigourously, it would also be wise to get periodic maintenance checks and treatments, just like you would for your car.
- What motivates you? What would get you exercising? Looking better? Being able to beat your friend at tennis? The ability to run for your bus without getting winded? Winding down at the end of a tough day with a great yoga class or perhaps a boxing class? Socializing with people at the gym or golf course, or being able to play an ultimate Frisbee game? Remember, it's not always about lifting weights and running on the treadmill. Find out what motivates you.
- What time of day should you schedule your exercise? Does the crack of dawn sound like a perfect way to beat the crowds? Do you prefer a brisk walk during lunch hour or bike ride? Perhaps would you rather end your workday with a workout before heading home? It's even harder to exercise if you are trying to fit it into a time that doesn’t work for you. Keep in mind if you decide to work out at the end of the day, you'll need to avoid thinking up more reasons not to exercise when that time comes!
There are so many ways to be more active, so mix it up! Bike or rollerblade to work, walk your cat (I've seen someone walking their cat, really!) or see if you can still do a somersault or a cartwheel (Careful though! Maybe skipping rope is a safer thing to do). You could also park a block or more further away from your office (I have to park several blocks away, like it or not, grumble, grumble) or even dance a jig! I just started playing squash again–if you've ever played, then probably you also know what "squash butt" feels like!
For information on HOW to move safely, Click Here.
