Debunking those common exercise excuses!
Debunking Those Common Exercise Excuses!
We all know that exercise is good for our physical, mental and emotional health. Yet we’re all too familiar with giving, or hearing, the typical excuses of why exercise just isn’t compatible with our hectic lifestyles. Most of us really do want a healthier, fitter version of ourselves, but we want it without the hard slog!
On those cold winter nights, or after a long day fighting traffic and side stepping your boss at work, it’s much easier to visualize a glass of chardonnay in the bathtub with a lovely backrub! So we make excuses to justify our lack of activity. But as we approach the summer months, lets debunk those common exercise excuses and get that bikini body in shape!
“I don’t like exercise” or “It’s boring!”
Answer: Taking up a sport or exercise regime that you don’t enjoy is an absolute waste of time and you’re setting yourself up to fail. Exercise Physiologist and member of the Olympic Council of Ireland's Medical Team, John Sharkey, highlights that boring exercise or activities lead to massive dropout levels. He advises choosing an activity you like and you will be more likely to stick to your exercise plan.
Do you feel that you can’t commit to one sport or activity? Combine two or more activities on different days of the week for variety. For example, a Pilates class Monday lunchtime, boot camp on a Thursday evening etc. This would also give you greater variety of aerobic exercise, stamina building, flexibility, and core strength.
“I don’t have the time!”
Answer: You have the same number of hours in the day as people who do exercise – it’s just a matter of being more time efficient! Exercise can always be incorporated into a hectic lifestyle. Early mornings, lunchtime, evenings are all doable. Try searching for activities close to work or home, which will cut down on travel time. Many gyms offer 45-minute early morning or lunchtime classes.
“I just don’t have the motivation!”
Answer: Asking yourself a few key questions may help you focus on what actually motivates you. Do you prefer individual or group activities? Can you motivate yourself (e.g. get up for a 6am run), or do you require an instructor waving the metaphorical stick? Exercise Physiologist John Sharkey strongly advises that professional guidance should be sought by anyone wanting to include physical activities into their daily routine. A professional NCEHS qualified instructor will have the motivational skills to keep you both safe and interested.
“It’s too expensive!”
Answer: Most exercise providers are now more flexible and recession conscious, providing a variety of payment methods: direct debit, pay as you go, buy a ‘book of 10 sessions’ etc. According to John Sharkey, local health club now offers better value than ever and he suggests taking a membership in a local gym as a great way to meet and network with people.
“I have a family!”
Answer: Many activities can be done with your children; you just need to get creative! A family cycle or hike is a cost effective option, and there are also more social activities such as family karate classes where kids and adults train together at all levels! The kids will love showing their parents how it’s done!
The European Union has now developed standards for health fitness instructors and personal trainers and more information can be found on these standards by visiting www.ntc.ie
Article by Louise Owens for Fitness TV
Louise's Website www.louiseowensmedia.com
