Breaking down the barriers to exercise
Excuse: I don’t have time to exercise
Truth: There’s time. The trick is to find or make it.
- Shoot for short sessions two or three times a day.
- Think activity rather than exercise. Mow the lawn, climb stairs, park at end of parking lot.
- Get up 30 minutes earlier twice a week to exercise.
- Schedule exercise into your day like an appointment.
Excuse: Exercise is boring.
Truth: It doesn’t have to be.
· Chose activities you enjoy
· Vary your routine
· Listen to music
· Enlist a friend
· Check out classes or leagues.
Excuse: I’m too old to exercise
Truth: You’re never too old to be physically active, and never too late to start. Even moderate physical activity can help prevent or delay age-associated conditions
Excuse: I can’t exercise because I have a chronic health condition.
Truth: This is only valid if your doctor has told you not to exercise. Physical activity can help you better manage symptoms of many chronic conditions.
Set goals you can easily achieve, such as exercising 20 minutes a day, three times a week for the first month. Write down your goals and check them off as you accomplish each one.
Reward yourself. After each exercise session, take a few minutes to sit down and relax. Savor the good feelings that exercise gives you, and reflect on what you have accomplished. External rewards also can keep you motivated. When you reach a longer goal, treat yourself to a pair of walking shoes, a new CD or a massage.