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Stop The Exercise Excuses & Get Off Your Butt
- Part 1
 I
started to write about the "Top 10 Excuses" I've heard
for not going to the gym. Well, 10 turned into 15, and 15 turned
into 21. Yes, 21. Not sure why but that's the count. These are listed
in no particular order because when it comes down to it, excuses
are like butts, everyone has….oh, never mind. You know what
I mean.
Exercise Excuses #1 - I'll do it tomorrow.
Procrastination is not the answer for anything, whether it's related
to work, home, or health. Start now. Don't wait until Monday because
it is the beginning of the week. Don't wait until Friday because
you are having a difficult week. Don't wait until New Year's and
call it a resolution. Make it a habit by starting today. Do it now.
Literally, today.
Exercise Excuses #2 - I'm too tired. I don't have any energy.
Exercising actually gives you more energy by strengthening your
cardiovascular system and releasing endorphins which make you "feel
good". Studies have shown that regular exercise helps a person
to sleep soundly so you won't have restless nights.
Exercise Excuses #3 - I'm too lazy.
See answer to # 2.
Exercise Excuses #4 - I travel too much to exercise.
What a great opportunity for you to inject variety into your workouts
and prevent boredom! There are a number of body weight exercises
you can do without having access to a gym. Or if you are staying
in a hotel that has a fitness center, try something new. Instead
of the treadmill, go on the elliptical machine or a recumbent bike.
If you usually work with weight machines, pick up dumbbells.
Exercise Excuses #5 - I tried to exercise before but lost motivation.
I hate exercise.
This could be a result of many things - bored with the same routine,
lacked challenge, didn't find it fun, didn't know anyone there,
not following a program. There are many ways to overcome this -
schedule a session with a personal trainer and ask for help, try
different machines or exercises, go outside and bike, walk, or run,
try different group classes until you find one that is fun, and
while you're doing it, you'll make friends. Once you find the exercises
you enjoy, you'll be much more likely to make it a habit.
Exercise Excuses #6 - My genes are bad.
What?!! What did they do? Did you punish them?
Exercise Excuses #7 - I'm too old.
You are never too old to start exercising. Studies have shown that
exercise helps with daily activities of life, improves cognitive
function, and increases mobility and independence. Some personal
trainers specialize in working with older adults, and AARP has entered
into an agreement with the American Council on Exercise to make
it easier to find certified trainers.
Exercise Excuses #8 - I like to walk (or run) outside but it's
raining or snowing.
If you really think you are going to melt, or if it is actually
dangerous, buy a bike or treadmill (if new is too pricey, consider
your local Craig's List), go to a mall and walk through it (leave
your wallet at home so you aren't tempted to buy anything), or rent
or buy DVDs for a different form of cardiovascular exercise.
Exercise Excuses #9 - Its too dark early in the morning and
too dark at night.
See answer to #8 above.
Exercise Excuses #10 - I'm embarrassed to try.
The first time any of us try a new activity, it can be intimidating.
Ask a trainer to show you proper form or go with a friend who is
knowledgeable.
Stop
The Exercise Excuses & Get Off Your Butt - Part 2
By Sharon
Chamberlin
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