Daily exercise is not about looking good or competition. It is about staying healthy. Exercise, balanced with a clean diet, is vital to keeping our bodies functioning at peak performance. For some people, that is easier said than done. It’s time to build good habits and overcome common excuses for skipping exercise.
“I have no time.”
You’re prioritizing other activities over working out. If you were sick, you wouldn’t say you had no time to go to the doctor. You have to utilize your time so that you can fit at least thirty minutes of cardio into your daily routine. Do you live in a dog-friendly area? Instead of walking Fido around the block, find out if you live in one of the best cities to walk your dog and take your furry friend with you to explore a new trail.
Instead of saying, “I have no time,” pencil in a time to work out and eliminate the excuses.
“I don’t want to pay for a gym membership.”
Don’t let finances be a barrier to becoming a better you. You can burn calories running a couple of miles, but if running is not your thing, you can buy home workout equipment. Many smart bikes and treadmills also offer memberships that come with classes and exercise tips. You can also do body-weight circuits at home or outside. All you need is yourself and space to move around.
Instead of saying, “I don’t want to pay for a gym membership,” research workouts you can do at home.
“I don’t know how to use the gym equipment.”
It’s OK if you confuse the contraptions on the gym floor with medieval torture devices. Workout equipment looks intimidating to anyone who doesn’t know the difference between abductors and adductors, but that’s OK. If your goal is to learn how to use the equipment, check to see if your gym offers private training or group classes. Everybody can learn, so don’t let a lack of knowledge stop you from working out.
Instead of saying, “I don’t know how to use gym equipment,” ask a friend who works out to show you how to use the machines.
“I’m too old.”
No one is ever too old to exercise. In fact, the older you get, the more important daily exercise is. What the exercise looks like will vary depending on your physical capabilities. It could be swimming for one person and speed walking for the next. Other “over the hill” fitness tips include light strength training and getting outside.
Instead of saying, “I’m too old,” join a local walking group or other low-intensity activity.
“I’m too tired.”
Your body releases endorphins when you exercise. Combat tiredness and unwanted feelings with physical activity. Those endorphins you release by working out will bring about positive feelings and will put you in a better mood. Many people like to work out first thing in the morning to start their days off right.
Instead of saying, “I’m too tired,” get up and move for at least ten minutes first thing in the morning.
“I’ll start next week.”
Motivation does not randomly creep up on you on January 1, and it will not do that on Monday morning, either. A lot of people will procrastinate and say they will start a diet or exercise the next day if it is convenient for them. It’s best to start exercising as soon as possible. You need to turn your words into actions instead of putting off your workouts.
Instead of saying, “I’ll start next week,” say, “I will go to the gym after work.” Then, follow through.
Ultimately, dedication and discipline are what will keep you exercising every day. Find effective ways to create healthy habits in your daily life and stay consistent. Soon, a day will turn into one week, then a month, until you realize you’re effortlessly making time for the gym. When you prioritize exercising, you prioritize your overall well-being.
AUTHOR’S BIO:
Gina Thompson is an experienced multimedia journalist, producer, and content writer born and raised in Texas. In her spare time, she loves catching a live band, dancing, and finding the next big taco spot. As a writer, she is passionate about making a positive impact on her community by elevating the voices and stories that need to be heard.
