Sources: American College of Sports Medicine; American
Council on Exercise; Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention
YOU WANT TO EXERCISE.
You know it’s good for
both your mind and body.
And you actually feel better
when you do it.
So what’s getting in the
way?
Maybe dozens of things.
Some are pretty persuasive
too. Life happens. But other
times, excuses are…well, just
excuses.
Here are some common
thoughts that derail good
exercise intentions—and tips
for what to do about them.
THE REMEDY
Schedule exercise just
like any other priority. Keep your walk-
ing shoes at your desk and head out for
a brisk stroll during lunch or breaks. Pack
your gym bag the night before. Break
exercise into 10-minute chunks if you
need to. Do double-duty: Walk in place
while watching TV; ride a stationary
bike while on the phone; park 20 min-
utes from work and walk to and from
your car.
THE REMEDY
Come up with an indoor
routine you can do when the weather
doesn’t cooperate. Doing calisthenics,
climbing stairs, jumping rope, walking
in a mall or swimming indoors are no-
cost or low-cost activities.
THE REMEDY
Oh, that inner, negative
voice. It zaps confidence and destroys
motivation. Keep track of your miles,
time, reps or steps. Give yourself credit
for a job well done!
FIGHT
BACK
Don’t let excuses
knock you off the
exercise track
THE REMEDY
The truth: Consistent
exercise actually boosts your energy.
But if you wait until you’re too pooped
to pump, it might not happen at all.
So schedule your workout for a time of
day when you have some get-up-and-go.
THE EXCUSE
“I’m too tired.”
THE EXCUSE
“I don’t have
time.”
THE EXCUSE
“It’s too wet/
cold/hot.”
THE EXCUSE
“Who cares? Why
bother?”
Don’t let an injury
keep you out of
the game. Visit
to learn about
physical therapy
options.
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