Healthy Habits: Exercise Excuses

This is me on a javelin approach two years ago. Photo by Nate Jorgensen

Do you make excuses to exercise? Here are some common excuses and great ways to work around them if they match you.

"I'm too tired." Did you know that exercising and stretching can actually boost your energy level? After you work out, the benefits of increased heart rate will last - plus, regular exercise will get you in better shape and you'll have a higher energy level. Try telling yourself you'll work out for just five minutes, and then see if you're still as tired or if you think you can do five minutes more. Working out to high-energy music can help too.

"It's boring." Have you tried something different? You don't just have to run or lift weights to stay in shape. Play active games with your kids, or try different workout DVDs to see what might work. Think about what your favorite activities are, and try to match them to a workout. Or try finding a workout buddy to break the monotony.

"I don't have time." Exercise doesn't have to take a lot of time, or take a huge chunk of time at once. Try mini-workouts, using a site like BreakPal. Take advantage of waiting time, like in line or while on hold. And multi-task - do calf raises while washing dishes, do crunches while watching TV, etc.

"I don't know how." That's the beauty of the internet. Just do a search for exercises. "Easy exercises," "no equipment exercises," "beginner exercises," etc. are all good ways to start.

"It hurts." Then you might be trying to do too much, to soon. Stick to low-impact exercises, and start slow with short amounts of time.

"I'm afraid to get hurt." If you take things at a pace that matches your ability, you probably won't. Plus, people who work out are actually less prone to injury, since they're stronger and more flexible.

"I've never stuck to it before." Give yourself incentives. Make a pact with friends or family, make a bet, or give yourself a prize after so many miles or hours of exercise.

"I can't afford it." There are lots of things that can be done with little or no equipment. An exercise band and a staircase can be all you need to do a lot of activities. And walking outside is free!