Starting a regular exercise routine isn’t easy. Here are the most common obstacles many beginners face and how to overcome them.
1 Not Enough Time
Monitor daily activities for a week. Identify three 30-minute time slots when you are most active and designate those as your workout time.
Incorporate exercise into your normal daily activities. Take a walk after dinner, do crunches during TV commercial breaks, or pace back and forth while on the phone.
Break up physical activity into 10-15 minute increments and spread them throughout the day or week.
2 Lack of Energy
Schedule physical activity for a time of day when you feel most energetic. For some, it’s first thing in the morning. For others, evening is best.
Aim to get more sleep so you feel rested, refreshed and ready to exercise. Added bonus – physical activity helps you sleep better, too.
3 Lack of Motivation
Plan ahead and write it on your calendar to hold yourself accountable.
Try group classes or a personal trainer who can encourage and motivate you.
Set a goal for yourself and reward yourself when you reach it.
Set workout clothes out where you will see them when you wake up or come home from work.
4 Weather
Try indoor activities like cycling, swimming, mall-walking, or dancing.
In summer months, exercise early in the morning or late in the evening to beat the heat.
Join a gym. Always air-conditioned. Always available.
5 Traveling
Choose a hotel with a swimming pool or exercise facility.
Take the stairs, walk the halls, or go for a run around the hotel.
Use your legs as transportation instead of renting a car.
6 Lack of Support
Ask friends and family to encourage your efforts and update them about your progress.
Invite friends and family to exercise with you. You’ll motivate each other and be less likely to cancel your workout.
