Fit ‘n’ Healthy: Overcoming Excuses

After almost 20 years in the fitness industry as a certified personal trainer, I am pretty sure I have heard almost every excuse in the book. I have also seen some amazing individuals crush those excuses and overcome huge obstacles to better their lives.

The most common excuse for people not sticking to an exercise program or quitting a program is a lack of time. Sorry, this just does not wash.

For one day write out how much time you actually spend doing something—actual work time, travel time, time eating, time wasted on the computer, time watching tv, time reading, etc. Chances are you can find 30 minutes in there to fit in a workout. And believe me, you can get your butt kicked in less than 30 minutes.

After that workout, you may find you have more energy and are more proficient in all the work you have to do. In the end, you will get more done, not less.

There are going to be those days where you are just too tired or don’t have enough energy. Those who exercise regularly know that exercise actually leaves you with more energy!

Try to schedule exercise when you are less likely to feel exhausted from a long day at work or with the kids. Get up 45 minutes earlier than everyone else and go for a walk. Keep your fitness gear in the car so that on the way home you can stop at the gym for your workout. Don’t go home first—the couch and TV may be too tempting after a long day at work.

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Or, schedule in workouts with you or a friend. Whether you’re tired or not, you still have to be there because someone is waiting for you.

Age is most definitely not an excuse! As per my last article, there is an activity that anyone can do at any age. Don’t get it into your head that you must be jumping, skipping, running and lifting heavy, heavy weight to get a benefit. There is an activity that you can do. It’s when you don’t use it that you will lost it!

You hate exercise. Really? You hate walking, jogging, biking, dancing, rowing, gardening, swimming, tai chi, skiing, playing in park, etc. The only thing you enjoy doing involves sitting or lying down? I don’t believe you.

What did you do as a kid that you enjoyed? Try picking it up again or a version of the same type of activity. You don’t have to be so sore you can’t sit down the next day. Move your body each day and your body will respond.

This one I hear a lot: “I am too out of shape to start exercising.” Really?! If you are uncomfortable, wear something that makes you feel more comfortable. Train at time or in areas of the gym that are less busy. Ask the staff for their less busy times. Communicate with your trainer about your discomfort and concerns, you can create a program that invloves little moving around the gym and keeps you in one quiet place. Remember no one started exercising in shape. Especially not me!

If the gym scene is not your thing, then pick activities outside the gym. Bring friends, join a class or get a trainer. It is important that you are comfortable with your activity.

So, stop with all the excuses, find the time in your day, get outside and get moving. It’s never too late.

This column is provided by Mrs. Lee Randell, independent fitness consultant, who is an ACE certified advanced health and fitness specialist and personal trainer. You can reach her at www.mrsleerandell.com.

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