No More Excuses

You said you would start tomorrow, yesterday...and the day before that, and the one before that, and so on. It's true that we are constantly faced with things that seem to interfere with our hope to get "on track" with our health and fitness. We always find reasons to wait. We always say we will start after the party this weekend, or after the holiday next week, or when work calms down.

Why do we wait?!

Think about your health like you think about your car. When you let a specific (seemingly simple) issue go, it often leads to greater problems and ultimately a more expensive and time consuming repair process. Same with your health, fitness, nutrition, and weight. You didn't get to where you are over night...which means it will take time to get to where to want to be. The longer you wait, the longer it will take to reach your goals. Stop waiting...stop making excuses. Start NOW! Here are some common excuses, and why they just don't fly:

1.  I'm too busy: no, you're not. We spend time on much less important things. Plan it...write it into your schedule. It's equally as important as any meeting or appointment you have. Try interval training which will give you an intense workout in as little as 20 to 30 minutes.

2.  I'm too old: no, you're not. Exercise and nutrition will keep you moving for longer, as well as fighting muscle loss and helping to prevent falls.

3.  I hate doing it alone: grab a friend. Take a group class. Find a trainer or coach to keep you motivated and accountable.

4.  It's boring/I don't have the energy: Exercise will give you MORE energy. Find something that you enjoy and it won't seem like work. Love to dance? Try Zumba. Want something totally different? Box. Like the outdoors? Kayak or hike.

5.  The kids!  This is one that we have to get past. It is important to be an example of good health and fitness. Work around their schedules. Get up early, walk during their activities, or do something that they can do with you.

6.  Pain (my aching back): movement will help. Strengthening muscles, especially your core, will reduce back pain. Stretch regularly and learn exercises that will actually reverse pain.

7.  I am already thin: thin doesn't always mean healthy. What about on the inside? Regular exercise and a healthy diet will help fight internal issues, such as heart disease, high cholesterol, and diabetes.

8.  I am too fat: start gradually. Try low impact activity such as swimming, walking or biking. Add a little bit of time each day and remember that diet works directly into the picture when working toward your goal.

9.  I hate the gym: there are plenty of other options. You can get a fantastic workout in your home or local park with nothing but your own body weight or a few light props (medicine balls, bands, etc).

It's not too late to start TODAY! Decide to make one small change for the rest of the day and add on each day until it becomes a habit. Make a commitment to get up and walk around every hour, replace beverages for the rest of the day with water, double up on veggies at lunch and dinner. Small steps lead to great results. What is your excuse?

Need help or motivation? Contact me today for a consultation or plan.