Many people say they want to, plan to, and need to exercise – but they don’t ever do it.
The information comes from my own experience, my readings, and from talking to everyday people who regularly exercise.
We know the benefits of exercise, but knowledge is worthless unless you take action – and you are more likely to take action when you follow these guidelines for getting started.
You might choose more than one type of exercise so that you get a mix of activities.
A physical trainer can help you design an exercise routine based on your physical condition and fitness goals.
A trainer’s advice is especially important if you use weights or exercise machines, because he or she can help you start out at a safe level of resistance and show you the proper postures and movements.
If you say you’ll exercise “When I can find the time to do it,” then other activities will take priority.
If having the time to exercise is an issue, consider ways to adjust your schedule.
If you want to exercise before going to work, maybe you need to skip to the before-bedtime cocktail that makes you feel groggy the next morning.
Most people who want to exercise try to motivate themselves with the notion that it’s somehow good for them.
You need a tangible reason to exercise – something that is uniquely meaningful to you.
Each week, mark adequate time on your daily calendar for exercise.
If it’s time to keep your exercise appointment with yourself, and you still feel reluctant, here is a way to “Trick” your motivation into gear.
You can talk yourself into exercising today or sitting on the couch.
You can give yourself valid reasons why you should exercise or why you should not.
There is a part of your brain that wants to exercise and a part that doesn’t.
Can you understand how is inevitable that she will pursue one task and avoid another? What are your strategies for motivation and avoidance? Can you detect the critical differences? Now think about the mental strategy you use to make yourself exercise or avoid exercise.
No matter how much self-discipline you possess, sooner or later something unexpected will throw your exercise routine off track -moving to a new location, a family crisis, or a change in your work hours.
You might encounter an injury or illness or physical limitation that makes your favorite type of exercise no longer a good choice.
I’ve heard many people say they can’t exercise because they are too busy doing things for others – their families, their customers, their employers, or their students.
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