We all know that exercise is good for us, and that it is something we should be doing, so why does it sometimes seem just to so hard to do? What stops you from exercising?
What are the barriers in your way?
Identifying and eliminate the reasons you don’t stick to or start your fitness journey. Figure out what stops you:
You don’t where to start.
You view it as a chore, or boring.
It sounds difficult, you don’t know how to exercise.
You are tired.
Lack of time.
Lack of childcare and / or other family commitments.
Budget – you view it as expensive.
A sedentary lifestyle has all too easily become a habit.
It feels intimidating.
You maybe didn’t see the changes you wanted.
So how do you overcome these obstacles, and motivate yourself to committing to your health and fitness?
Removing Those Barriers
What can you do to set yourself up for success?
Always check with your G.P. before starting any new exercise or activities. Seek specific advice should you have any specific requirements, health conditions, or injuries.
Have a clear plan with goals. Identify your own personal aims and outcomes. What health and fitness improvements do you want to gain? Ensure your fitness plan and activities are tailored to meeting your goals.
Make it fun! Ensure your activities are things you enjoy. You are more likely to want to commit to activities you enjoy. Switch it up, keep it interesting!
Enlist help! Find a great instructor, trainer, gym or app to get you started. There are so many options now to choose from to get you started.
Go for a brisk walk. Exercise will not only increase your energy levels, but improve your sleep too.
If you are short on time, try smaller, shorter activities throughout the day - ten minutes is better than zero. Or cut the travel time and do an online class.
Find a family activity and get active together, or a class or gym with a creche if you struggle for childcare.
Look to see if you have any local funded, free or low cost community classes. See if your local park has outdoor gym equipment you can use, or a Park Run program. Use everyday household objects as weights. Do a few stretches whilst dinner is cooking. Fitness doesn’t have to be expensive!
Start off slowly and gradually.
Ensure you find a class of the right level. If you are new to exercise, look for a beginner’s class. Try a community class - group classes also give the benefit of being social and motivating. Seek out a group of likeminded people for moral support and motivation!
Be patient – changes can take time before you start to notice them. Consistency and commitment is key to success!
When you are struggling
Don’t beat yourself up if your plan slips. Celebrate the goals you may have already reached along the way. Remind yourself of your original aims and outcomes, and why you started on your journey, and get back on it. Tomorrow is a new day!
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