Stop The Exercise Excuses & Get Off Your Butt - Part 2

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 #11 - I don't exercise and I'm thin. I don't need to lose weight.
Being thin doesn't mean you are healthy. Strength training and cardiovascular exercise have been proven to increase your overall health by reducing your risk of cardiovascular disease, lowering high blood pressure, reducing LDL cholesterol levels, and providing many other health benefits.

Exercise Excuses #12 - When I exercised in the past, it hurt.
Then you were probably doing something wrong. Exercise should not hurt. You may become sore, but "no pain, no gain" is a myth. Ask a professional to set up a program for you and to ensure you are using proper form.

Exercise Excuses #13 - I'm confused on how to use the machines. I'm not sure what to do or for how long.
Schedule one appointment with a trainer. Explain what you are looking for, and you will find this to be a solid investment with a high rate of return.

Exercise Excuses #14 - I just had a baby.
Congratulations! Now, go for a walk (or run) with the stroller. Or follow an exercise DVD while your baby is napping. With a physician's approval, you can usually start or return to exercise pretty quickly.

Exercise Excuses #15 - I don't have access to a gym.
Gym membership isn't necessary to exercise. You can walk, run, or bike, perform body weight exercises, or participate in team sports.

Exercise Excuses #16 - I tried it before and I didn't see any results.
What were your goals? Was your program designed to meet your goals? How long did you follow the program? The answers to these questions are just many of the reasons why you may not have seen the results you hoped for.

Exercise Excuses #17 - My gym is always overcrowded, doesn't have any newer machines, only has one set of dumbbells for each size…..
You are paying for this? Change gyms.

Exercise Excuses #18 - Since we moved or since I changed jobs, my gym is on the other side of town. It's not convenient any more.
Again I ask, why are you paying for this? Change gyms.

Exercise Excuses #19 - I don't want to work out alone.
Try a group class. There are usually many to choose from at different fitness levels and intensities, such as kickboxing, yoga, pilates, spinning, body pump, and others. Or ask for a free day/month membership and bring a family member or friend to join you. You'll soon meet lots of people and build new friendships.

Exercise Excuses #20 - I'm tired after my workout.
What time do you exercise and what do you eat before? How much sleep do you get each night? Are you overdoing it? Are you factoring in a recovery day? These are just a few of the reasons you might feel tired.

Exercise Excuses #21 - I'm young and healthy. I don't need to exercise now.
By being active with regular exercise, you will help strengthen your bones and muscles, increase your metabolism, and keep your full range of motion. Functionally, you will be able to perform daily activities with less issue. You will also create good habits for you to continue to follow as you get older.

Stop The Exercise Excuses & Get Off Your Butt - Part 1

By Sharon Chamberlin