You might be surprised by the many reasons people come up with for not working out, not being able to exercise, to commit to a healthier lifestyle. This post is about helping people recognise barriers (physical and mental) and push past them. In short, there’s no reason why you cannot exercise.
In order to function effectively, your body needs regular activity and yet many people find themselves “stuck” and unable to move forward with an exercise plan for a number of reasons.
It Costs Too Much
You might be surprised at how affordable becoming fitter actually is. You don’t need swanky gym wear, expensive equipment or memberships. Many people start off at home with baked bean tins as weights and move up from there! Walking, jogging and running are all free. Most gyms offer a free induction or trial session which helps you work out if the gym is for you as well as pay as you go options and even a personal trainer, who works with you 1-1 could be more affordable that you’d think.
I Haven’t Done Any Exercise Since School
Many people find themselves in the position of wanting to make changes but worry that it has been such a long time since they were last properly active. The beauty of the human body is that it is remarkably reactive in that even if you haven’t been active for years, your body will still recognise new activity and reward you accordingly.
I Don’t Like Sports/Running/Swimming
The beauty of exercise is that there are so many different ways to get fit! You might not be someone who likes the idea of jogging, however, you might well find HIIT, yoga, pilates and powerwalking to be your thing. Find what you enjoy, after all, you’re in control.
I Need to Lose Weight First
Ah, the never-ending cycle. So many people tell me they can’t start an exercise plan because they are overweight. My answer is always the same. If you want to do something about what it says on the scales you need to start with exercise and diet. Wishing excess weight away doesn’t work as well as boosting your activity. Don’t deny yourself the opportunity to feel healthier.
I Have an Injury
With support from someone who knows what they are doing, exercise, when injured, will most likely aid recovery and help guard against future injuries. Targeted exercise is perfect for helping you work out despite any limitations you might have and needn’t be any less enjoyable.
There’s No Time
You do need to commit yourself to a health and fitness plan and that does mean dedicating pockets of time to your regime. When you work out, however, is up to you. Could you get up half an hour earlier, go for a quick jog/power walk at lunchtime, put aside an hour here or there? If you really do want to make changes you’ll find that you can make the time.
Ninety percent of the time the real reason people shy away from getting started on a beneficial health and fitness plan is due to a lack of self-confidence. It doesn’t matter where you are right now, it’s where you want to be (and can be) that is important. Worried about being too slow, clumsy, a beginner? As the saying goes, get started and you’ll already be lapping those watching TV on the sofa with a bag of crisps. From that point on it’s onwards and upwards and you can do it!