Exercise - Getting Past The Excuses

The idea of starting an exercise program can be a little overwhelming. In addition, most of us have a long list of reasons, more like excuses why we can't start. "I'm too old", "I'm too fat", "I hate exercising", "I can't keep up, it’s too hard", "I don't know where to start", "I don't have the time". So where do you start? What program is right for you? What do you want to accomplish? Weight loss? Do you want to tone and condition, or build endurance?

In my many years of playing the weight game, I've dipped my toe in a variety of different work out regimes and programs. I remember in my early teens doing the 20-minute workout on TV. I would follow along with the high cut leotard wearing, teased out hair, skinny minny women and wonder how is it they aren't sweating?!  Now in my 40's I have a completely new appreciation for health and fitness. It is a whole new ballgame. That is a discussion for another time.

Let's first get past some of our most common excuses shall we?

  

 "I hate exercising"

For some of us the idea of going to a gym and working out in front of a bunch of strangers who we think are judging us is a nightmare. The idea of hitting a treadmill makes you tired and miserable just thinking about it. Choosing something you enjoy doing is what is going to help you build that exercise habit. Do you enjoy dancing? Walking? Start there. Keep it simple and build on it from there.

"I'm too old", I'm too fat"

No such thing. With all things that you are doing that involve your health, you should of course consult with your primary healthcare provider. But there isn't much that would limit you from starting some type of activity. Anything is better than nothing at all. Whether you are a senior or just getting back to working out after many years of being a self-proclaimed couch potato there is something safe and fun out there for you.

"I don't have the time, I'm too busy"

The Heart and Stroke foundation recommends that we do 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity per week. 150 minutes sounds like a lot, I know. But this can be broken down into 10-15min activities at a time. Go for a fast-paced walk on your lunch hour, throw dinner in the oven and chase the kids around for 10mins, walk the dog, or put your favourite music on and have a dance party! Just because you can't commit to 30 consecutive minutes per day doesn't mean you completely rule exercise and physical activity out.

 So? What's stopping you?