Overcoming Exercise Excuses
When you promise yourself you’ll workout, but never quite seem to follow-through, there’s a feeling of mis-alignment that happens. Arrrgh, I let myself down, again!
Overcoming procrastination or ‘overcoming your buts’ as I call it, takes practice. It’s like building a new muscle. With these 10 WhyPowered tips, you’ll be much more likely to build movement into an everyday routine in your life. Your future healthier self is thanking you already!
Start Small & Set Realistic Goals For Fitness and/or Weightloss
Instead of committing to long, intense workouts right away, begin with small, manageable sessions. Even 10–15 minutes a day is a great start. This will make exercise feel less overwhelming. Getting the goals in writing instead of just having them in your head helps, too.
Schedule Routine Excercise
Treat exercise like an important appointment that you can’t miss. Schedule specific days and times for your workouts, just like you would for work or social events. Sticking to a schedule makes it less likely that you’ll put it off.
Find Exercise You Enjoy
Choose an activity that you actually enjoy. Whether it’s walking, dancing, yoga, or swimming, it’s easier to stay consistent when you look forward it. Think about what type of activity you enjoyed most when you were a kid. Often this still applies.
Find Your Movement Rhythm
Building exercise into your daily routine makes it a habit. Try linking it with an activity you already do (i.e. ‘habit stack it), like stretching before breakfast or taking a stroll after dinner. Whenever possible, making your routine happen same time each day is most effective. Also, those who exercise first thing in the morning are by far more consistent than those who do it any other time of day. Nothing gets in the way!
Set a Minimum Baseline
Make this deal with yourself: “I will exercise for 5 minutes.” Often, once you get started, you'll keep going. If after 5 minutes you still don’t feel like it, at least you did a short workout.
Crush Obstacles
Make moving as easy as possible. Slay your negative inertia. Lay out your workout clothes the night before, keep any equipment accessible, and make your location convenient.
Be Accountable
Get an accountability partner, whether it's a friend, family member, professional coach or a group. Sharing your goals helps you stay in the game.
Be Like a Puppy
After each workout, reward yourself. It could be as simple as enjoying a relaxing shower, or anything else that connects with your personal values. (High calorie junky food rewards not recommended!)
Visualize the Perks of Being Fit
Focus on how accomplished you’ll feel after your workout. Visualizing the benefits, such as increased energy, improved mood, and better health, can motivate you to keep showing up consistently.
Embrace Imperfection
Let things be a bit messy and hard. Some days will be easier than others, but what matters is consistency over time. Missing one workout doesn’t mean you’ve failed; just get back to it the next day. Follow the ‘never miss twice rule’ like I’ve featured in this habit building guide that I created.
By incorporating these approaches to building exercise into your life, you can gradually overcome procrastination and make movement a part of your daily workout routine. You’ll be happier and healthier for it.
Want more inspo and guidance for up-leveling your daily habits? Consider working with me as your virtual personal trainer. If you’re looking for the best online fitness coaching programs, look no further! Set up a chat with me without judgement or obligation. Just ideas for change!
To your good health and joy,
Health Coach Gayle Rose
Certified Personal Fitness Trainer
Certified Whole Health Coach
Certified Behavior Change Specialist
720-793-0413
