Exercise Obstacles: How to Persevere and Stay Motivated
Most people are aware of the many benefits of exercise. Even a brisk walk can help restore your mental and physical health. Getting into a routine, however, can be difficult. Some people are fortunate to be naturally motivated, have money for a gym, or have supportive friends.
The demands of work and family can often get in the way of an exercise routine. Mental state is also an important part of working out. Rigorous movement often helps to bring a more peaceful mental state and helps you focus better, however. Motivation is key when it comes to daily self-care through exercise. Overcome these common exercise obstacles that prevent exercising.
Tired
It is ironic that exercise solves many of the problems that cause you to avoid it. Exercise increases your energy level by increasing the amount of oxygen that enters the brain by initiating better blood flow. Lung capacity also improves the more you exercise. If you feel too tired for a full workout, take a walk with your dog, dance around your house, or ride your bike to run an errand. Once you get moving little, you may feel better about doing more.
Depressed
Depression is another symptom that can improve with regular exercise. This disorder, however, can be severe and cause people to remain inactive. Make a small checklist for your day and include exercise. Sometimes a list simply keeps you grounded, giving you something tangible to refer to when you feel a bit lost in your own mind. Enlist a friend to help get you out of bed or to meet you for morning walks.
A little something to look forward to can go a long way, as well. Treat yourself to a special coffee or television show after the workout. You can also combine your workout with something else that you must do each day. This way you do not have to get motivated to go out multiple times. For example, park far away from the grocery store to get a walk or use a gym near work on your lunch break. If you are unable to leave your house you can do housework, walk up and down stairs, or follow a workout video.
After Work
Many people wake up with the intention of having a productive day. Even the best plans to exercise, however, can be overlooked after a stressful day of work. Accountability partners are a great help. If you know someone is waiting for you to take a run or workout together at the gym, you feel more obligated to show up. Bike to work or carpool with an accountability buddy so you must get some exercise before going home.
Getting up Early
It is often easier to get your exercise done before the late day exhaustion hits. If you are not a morning person, however, you may be more interested hitting the snooze button. If you despise rising early, try a morning workout only one or two days a week. Once you exercise more, you may naturally begin to wake up with more energy. Start with short routines while you adjust to the new schedule. Remember that your morning mood starts the night before. There is no substitute for a good night of rest.
Alone
You may be envious of those people that run together every morning or talk for hours at the gym. There are, however, some perks to working out alone. There is no better reason to put in your ear buds and enjoy your personal space with your favorite tunes. With fewer distractions, you can finish quickly, for one.
You can also go at your own pace instead of pushing too hard to keep up with others. You can often find some fun workout companions at home, as well. Grab your kids for active games in the living room or a trip to the pool. The family dog may also appreciate a little run around the neighborhood.
Overweight
One main goal of exercising is to lose weight. It is much harder to move, however, when you are out of shape. If you are new to exercise, visit your doctor to check your health status first. You can also get some suggestions for nutrition and avoiding injury. Look ahead to the exciting day when exercise becomes easier. Set small goals and celebrate the victories on your journey, as well. Everyone has different abilities. Be proud of what your body can do as you learn new exercises and gain strength.
Self-conscious
It is common to be self-conscious about how you look in workout clothes or while participating in a class. Purchase some workout gear with your favorite colors or fun patterns. Comfortable clothes are a must-have, however. If you feel bad, your confidence can plummet. Instead of hiding in the back of exercise classes, sign up for beginner classes so everyone is learning together.
Pain
Did you injure yourself or have chronic pain related to a disease? Your doctor can help you manage the pain with the proper medication. If did injure yourself you should give yourself time to heal. You do not aggravate the condition. This will only lengthen the healing time. If take pain medications, take around the time you plan to exercise. Pills take about 30 minutes to start to work , therefore adjust your workout time to sync your `. You can also take regular breaks when you are exercising. Your doctor may also prescribe physical therapy to help you get stronger and heal better.
If you are simply having muscle soreness from your workouts, be sure to prepare properly each day. Stretch well, eat foods that replenish your body, and get plenty of rest. Your body heals best when you take good care of yourself. You can also designate days that you work on different parts of your body.
Busy Lifestyle
Being busy is the most common excuse for not working out. It is surprising, however, how easy it is to fit in a little exercise. You can replace a coffee date with friends for an outing at the park, for example. Instead of watching your kids play outside, run around with them. Even house chores, such as mopping, can get your heart rate up. Put on some wireless earbuds and clean to the beat.
No Funds for the Gym
Many businesses make large profits off those that want to get fit. Gyms are great because they have all the equipment in one place, tons of classes, and trainers for hire. You do not need to join a gym, however, to get healthy and fit. You can save up and get a few things for home, such as hand weights, a yoga mat, and an exercise ball. Subscribe to a YouTube channel that offers exercise videos and meal plans for help with motivation. Many outdoor parks have running trails and exercise equipment for public use, as well.
It can be challenging to get motivated to work out. Even though exercise gives you more energy, new routines are hard to establish. You may not feel well, dislike early mornings, or have a busy work schedule. Take small steps and reward yourself for meeting goals. It is also important to be realistic about fitting exercise into your day. Every little bit of movement helps. Walk, bike, or dance on days when you can’t fit in a full workout. With a little perseverance, you can stay motivated to get healthy.