Excuses for Not Exercising

You have done it several times in your life. You have made a New Years Resolution or a promise to yourself to start a physical activity routine, join a gym or use the exercise bike that you bought two years ago rather than it ending up in your next garage sale. We have all heard this story either in spring in anticipation of the "body beautiful" for summer or after the Christmas indulgence.

But somehow each year we find a way to rationalize to ourselves why we do not embark on a personal health and fitness program.

Can't Find 30 Minutes For Exercise?

In 1986 the Better Health Commission Report found that the two most common excuses for not exercising were lack of time and that exercise was too difficult to sustain. There are 336 half-hours in every week, of which we generally sleep for 105 of them. This leaves 231 half hours for exercise. The challenge is to find a minimum of 3 half hours a week for exercise. By making physical activity a part of your everyday schedule much like brushing your teeth you are giving yourself time to exercise and consequently other things will not get in the way.

Other Common Excuses

I don't know what to do,
I'm too unfit,
I have no gear,nthere are no facilities or no company for exercise.

Unfortunately the fitness-fairy godmother cannot wave a magic wand and create a fit and healthy individual. We need to make a commitment and put time aside. Too often I see clients who have put physical activity on the back burner for a number of years and then want to 'get fit in ten easy lessons', 2 hour per day, five days a week. This approach is likely to lead to injury and or illness. Moderation and consistency are the keys to a progressive exercise program for sustainable long-term lifestyle changes.

Do You have A Treadmill Gathering Dust In The Attic?

Approximately two-thirds of the adult population above the age of 45 do not exercise. Some see the solution as hiring or buying an exercise bike or treadmill or buying a gym membership. However a large percentage of individuals who purchase a gym membership cease attending within the first three months, with half of those quitting within the first 21 days.

In addition only 25% of people who exercise achieve their desired results as people place themselves in unwinnable situations by setting unachievable goals. By setting attainable goals you give yourself something to work towards and a reason to exercise. Unrealistic goals only lead to disappointment, so focus on what is achievable.

It is important to keep a record of your progress by maintaining a physical activity diary, as small improvements are difficult to notice.