Stop finding reasons to dodge exercise - it's time you just did it!

From time to time, even the most dedicated gym-goers try to justify not exercising. Reasons can include everything from, ‘I've had such a long day and there's no energy left,' to ‘It's raining, so I'll just stay in bed.'

In psychological terms, excuses are part of your decisional balance. We have a ‘thought bubble' where we weigh up the reasons for or against doing certain activities. So change your mindset. Don't let your list of reasons ‘against' outweigh your list of reasons ‘for'.

It's harder to be active these days as physical activity needs to fit conveniently into our busy lifestyles. Your first few times exercising after a break can be draining, but give it a week or two and you'll feel so good that you'll wonder why you made excuses.

Excuses and how to turn it around

I have a family: If you have children, find activities that include them. For babies and young children, use a jogger pram to go for walks or runs. For older kids, kick a soccer ball around the park with them, take your bikes out for a ride or go swimming. Break the activities into small sections so your children don't get bored.

I have an injury: Whether your injury was back pain, a broken toe or a pulled muscle, physical activity is vital to your health and reducing the chance of re-injury. Adjust your exercises to avoid aggravating it - a water workout is kind to most sore spots or, if you've injured your hand, go for a jog.

My make-up will be ruined if I exercise at lunchtime: If always looking your best is a major part of your lifestyle or you have an afternoon meeting to attend and no shower at the office, it's probably best for everyone that you don't break a sweat during the day. Stretching for 20 minutes or a ‘measured' workout with weights should do the trick.

I don't have time: Even the busiest people make time to exercise. Have a lunchtime walk, run, swim or gym workout. If your workday is too busy, get up earlier in the morning for an early session, or cycle to work.

I'm too old: Physical activity benefits health at any age. You don't have to over-do it. Even walking improves balance, strength and bone density. Start slowly and visit your doctor before starting a new exercise regimen. We don't slow down because we get
old, we get old because we slow down.

I can't get motivated: What you're saying is, you haven't found an activity you enjoy. Find a friend to exercise with or book a session with a personal trainer. Try different exercises until you find something you're motivated to do.

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