I THOUGHT IT WOULD BE FUN to give a comedic approach to fitness with the article at hand. I have travelled across the country this year and I feel confident that what I discovered offers a true representation of women across the United States. I asked women in each location for their top 10 excuses for not working out.
I’m too tired.
We can all throw this out the window and use it nomore. It’s a proven fact that exercise increases your energy. Do it and you will feel better and getmore accomplished.
I can’t afford a gym membership.
This is the case for a lot of people, but you can get the same workout at home as you can in the gym. Just use things around your home if you need to. At a recent event in St. Louis, I used soup cans to demonstrate how they can be used as hand-held weights. It just takes a little creativity.
I don’t have enough time.
This excuse was used at every event I went to. Let’s be honest.We don’t have enough time because we don’tmake the time. Do you have a favorite TV show that you nevermiss? Watch the show and during the commercials do some exercises on the floor. I always say, “Some exercise is better than no exercise at all.”
I don’t know where to start.
This has an easy answer. Just start! Whatever you like doing as exercise, get out and do it. Fromwalking to Pilates there are tons of options out there.
I don’t know what I’m doing.
There are somany avenues to turn to now for education and correct information—fromthe Internet to TV. Just make good choices for yourself about what you want and need. Remember, it’s your body.
There is no hope, it will take too long.
Just do it! We all have to start somewhere. The first day is always the toughest. Once you get past the first day you will become more motivated. You’ll wonder why you didn’t start an exercise program earlier.
I get bored and I just can’t stick with it.
This happens to a lot of people, especially those who reach a plateau. It’s important to change your routine often. You don’t eat green beans every day, so why do the same workout all the time? Variety is the key to keeping in the game of fitness.
I feel uncomfortable in the gym.
There are so many great facilities out there today that I promise one will be your perfect fit. You just need to get out and see what’s in your area. If it’s a financial concern, work out in your home or neighborhood. Maybe you’re a people person—start a neighborhood walking group. Not only will you get in shape, but you will get to know your neighbors too.
I have no motivation.
This is something that you have to find within yourself. I tell women that my motivation is my children. What will motivate you to be a better you? Look within yourself today and find your motivation.
No one will help me.
This is solved because I will be here any time you need me. Maybe there will be someone in your family or a friend who can help encourage you down the road to a better and more fit you. So all of the excuses should be thrown out the door. I want each of you to know that Imean it when I tell you that you can contact me any time.
My e-mail address is desiree@vesselfitness.com. Keep up the good work. I have faith in you—I know you can do it.
Desiree Summers is the host and co-creator of the television show Vessel Fitness on iLife TV.