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MIND & BODY

Excuses out, fitness in

You need to spend time thinking about why you personally want to exercise more. Make your own list of reasons to do it, rather than not to do it — Kimiecik

Ask yourself these questions:

“Do I want to get in the habit of exercise to feel on top of the world?”

“Do I want to be independent and lead a full life when I am old?”

“Will my body listen to my wishes and carry me through?”

If the answer is ‘yes’, stop making excuses and start exercising. There are people who have always exercised, and there are those who have always made excuses, some plausible, some creative, but excuses nevertheless. You cannot justify not exercising, you have to make the effort to improve your fitness levels and overall well being.

Excuse 1: “I am so rushed through the day…rush through work, rush home. Where is the time for exercise?”

Manage your time well. You need not spend a whole hour exercising. A good exercise routine for twenty to thirty minutes can be effective. Mark a slot for exercise in your daily planner. Exercise must be regular, so choose a time you can follow every day.

Perhaps you could wake up early and go for a brisk walk, cut short your lazing around by fifteen minutes, your television viewing time by twenty minutes, or better still, exercise while watching television!

Excuse 2: “I get too tired to exercise. I do enough at work and at home.”

What you do at home and at office is ‘work’ not ‘exercise’. Exercise works your entire body, to make you more supple, toned and less stressed. Exercise also improves circulation and increases strength and stamina. Start with small steps and increase gradually.

Excuse 3: “I am too old to exercise.”

Exercise is for all ages. It’s never too late to start. If you don’t use your muscles and you’ll lose their efficiency! Exercise will keep you fit and going. Just make sure the exercise program is developed keeping in mind your current health status, fitness level and goals.

Excuse 4: “I hate anything to do with exercise. It is such a struggle”.

Exercise is not just about profusely sweating it out, struggling under weights, or jogging a marathon! What exercise you choose to do is up to you. Different personalities connect to different fitness routines. Take a look at some of the options – and figure out where you fit in. Shed your prejudice and find exercises and that keep you interested!

Excuse 5: “Gym membership or home equipment is too expensive.”

You don’t need to invest in equipment; invest in your other resources — time and enthusiasm. Run or jog, or go for a brisk walk in your local park. You can do yoga or callisthenic exercises such as pushups and crunches at home. Or you can exercise to your favourite fitness show on television all you need to do is follow the instructions.

Excuse 6: “I can’t get to my workout place easily.”

Many of us, in our initial enthusiasm, join a gym, are very regular for the first few days and then, it gradually reduces to just a few sporadic sessions. Choose a gym that is close to your workplace or home so that you don’t spend too much time travelling.

Excuse 7: “I’m too embarrassed and out of shape to start exercising.”

Nobody’s perfect. Start exercising for a new you. You owe it to yourself to be fit and healthy. Set yourself exercise goals, boost your spirits and follow a healthy diet regimen. Make a start, set the pace and keep going.

Excuse 8: “Exercising hurts. Pain while working out makes it a chore. Exercise is not for me.”

Initially, you may feel some discomfort or tiredness, but in the long run, a good fitness workout should make you feel invigorated and increase your endurance levels. If there is pain, slow down or stop, and if the pain persists, consult your physician.

Excuse 9: “I cannot exercise because of health problems.” “I have a bad back.” I have bad knees.”

The merits of exercise are hard to ignore – and so are the dangers of inactivity. If you lead a sedentary lifestyle you are prone to developing health conditions such as heart disease, osteoporosis to symptoms such as low energy levels and lethargy. If you have chronic back, knee or shoulder problem, work with a trained physical therapist.

Now is the time. Every excuse not to exercise has a better reason to exercise. Think of how much more you can enjoy life when you are healthy and fit. Beat the excuses and get into top form

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