By: Bill Healey
We’ve all heard doctors and health experts tell us how important exercise is. We’re pretty much told it on a daily basis through the TV, internet, newspapers and magazines. The thing is they never seem to mention how it will require some work from us, as well. That’s the part of the lesson at which everyone stops listening.
Despite knowing how good exercise is for our body, we choose to exercise our brains in coming up with all sorts of excuses to not do it. We’ll think of and come up with any reason
at all not to hit the gym or go for that walk. You’ll use excuses like deciding to watch the news or you had to stop at the store to pick up dog food just in case you run out overnight.
at all not to hit the gym or go for that walk. You’ll use excuses like deciding to watch the news or you had to stop at the store to pick up dog food just in case you run out overnight.Leading health experts want to remind us that study after study has shown that regular physical activity, even moderate levels, reduces the risk of heart disease, cancer, high blood pressure and obesity. It enhances physical and mental functioning. Yet, we still choose an inactive lifestyle because of these reasons:
Intimidation – A lot of people list fear as a big reason not to exercise. The exercise industry is so confusing anymore. It seems like every day there is a new miracle machine or technique that will work wonders. Everyone is making claims and people are left wondering what actually works. Some also feel embarrassed that they don't know how to correctly use the machines at the gym, have no rhythm in step class, or don't own the right exercise clothing.
Lack of time – This seems to be a favorite excuse even for me. People think that to get a good workout they need to get an hour or more of exercise. They claim they don't have enough time or they don't know how to manage their time to fit it in. If they have trouble managing their time, exercise is often the first thing on the list to go. Little things like running to the store can change your best-laid plans. Even a rerun of Seinfeld sounds better than a trip to the gym some days.
Negative image of exercise – For many people I know just saying the world "exercise" bring up scarring memories of dodge-ball games during grade-school gym and being picked last. For those people, that's their only experience with exercise, so they start out on the wrong foot with a negative perspective of it.
Slow results – Nothing happens overnight and if you think it does, you’re fooling yourself. Seeing and feeling the benefits of exercise takes time and many people give up long before that. There is no magic pill or the 'drink this and you'll lose weight. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news but there isn’t a better, faster, easier way but hard work.
Money – There are some health clubs that are pricier than others but not all are. People also think they can't afford a health club, the equipment or gear they need to get involved in a particular activity. No one wants to waste money on something they won't use or won't like.
Lack of support - Without the encouragement of a spouse, friend, or family member, it's much easier to give up. Try to find a gym partner.
Motivation - Whatever your excuses are for hating to exercise, in the end, it's a lack of motivation that keeps us from moving our bodies. Anyone who has tried and failed to get in a regular fitness routine quickly realizes that long term benefit isn't the best motivation.
Ok. You’ve seen people’s excuses why to hate exercise. They all seem pretty silly, don’t they? Looking at how flimsy these excuses are, there is no reason why you can’t start even a small exercise regiment. You’ll be thanking yourself in the long run.
Seek the opinion of your doctor before following of any diet treatment and regiment. Only a doctor can provide you with advice on what is safe and most effective for you.
