It’s a new day and you start out with all intentions of hitting the gym and getting in your daily exercise. But somewhere along the way thoughts like, “I’m too busy” or “I don’t have the energy” stop you from working out. Sound familiar?
Put and end to your exercise excuses with these helpful tips and tricks!
1. “I don’t have the time”
Most people who use this excuse make time for things like vegging out in front of the TV, or constantly scrolling through their Instagram feed. The truth is, the U.S. Surgeon General recommends that the average adult get 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week – that’s only about 30 minutes daily!
We would suggest getting in a full 30 minutes of working out every day, but if you really are pressed for time here are some tips.
- Break up the time into 10 minute exercise segments throughout the course of the day
- Do squats, lunges, pushups etc. during the commercial breaks of your favorite show.
- Use the stairs instead of the elevator.
- Take a brisk walk during your lunch break at work.
2. “I’m too tired”
Okay, this might sound a little crazy but, exercising actually makes you feel energized! When you exercise your body releases the feel-good hormones called endorphins and your circulation increases making you feel more awake.
I know after a long day of work, the last thing you want to do is hit the gym. In this case, exercising in the morning might be the best option for you. If you still struggle to get up and get moving, use a trick that’s worked for me many times before. Tell yourself, “I’m going to exercise for just 15 minutes”. More often than not, after that first 15 minutes are over I’m in the workout-zone and ready to do a complete workout!
3. “It’s boring”
The key to exercising and building a workout routine that you can stick to is doing things that you truly enjoy. If you don’t like to dance, then taking a Zumba class probably isn’t the best exercise option for you.
Tailor your workouts to suit your needs and wants. Whether it be running, playing a sport, taking group classes, or at-home workout DVD’s, try out different forms of exercise to find what you love to do – while also breaking a sweat!
4. “I don’t know what to do at the gym”
If you’re a newbie at the gym, it can be an intimidating place. Always remember that at some point or another your fellow gym-goers were new to this as well! If you’re unsure of what to do at the gym, enlist in the help of a fit friend. She’ll be able to help you get started and motivate you to workout.
If you’re taking a group fitness class, arrive early or stay later to speak with the instructor about any questions you may have. Their job is to help you get in tip-top shape, so don’t be shy about approaching them!
Having a personal trainer is another great way to learn the ropes of the gym. A trainer will teach you all the basic exercise moves, show you how to use equipment, etc. Perfect for someone that likes one-on-one demonstrations and training!
5. “My kids get in the way of my exercise routine”
Having children is certainly a blessing, but trying to fit in a workout around not only your schedule but theirs as well can be a challenge. When possible, try to exercise before your kids wake up or after they’ve gone to bed. It may sound like a pain, but many parents admit that it is the only time that they are able to squeeze in an uninterrupted workout session.
Another option is to exercise with your kids! Whether it’s helping them practice for a sport or playing a game of tag – get moving together. Exercising with your children is a great bonding experience that will also teach them the importance of living a healthy and active lifestyle.
