Sometimes, the truth stings, especially when it comes to our lame exercise excuses. Seriously, they are terrible. We’ve heard them all and know that if you follow a solid plan, you can achieve amazing results. We asked a few top experts about the common excuses they hear and how to overcome them. Here’s what they shared:
We understand that everyone has a busy schedule, and life is already full even before you add getting in shape to your list. This is where good coaching comes in. Most people see a personal trainer to get in shape, but that’s often just a superficial goal. We need to dig deeper and ask why they want to get fit. Answers might be as simple as wanting to look better naked or at the beach, but the real reasons are usually deeper.
For instance, someone might say, “I just got over a bad breakup and want to feel better about myself as I start dating again.” This provides us with a clearer goal related to social acceptance. Understanding the true motivation behind your goals helps determine if getting in shape will achieve your desired outcome. Knowing this can help you prioritize your actions better.
Social acceptance is a strong motivator because it’s something we all seek. If clients believe getting in shape will help them achieve this, they are more likely to stick with it, rather than just trying to get fit because they feel they should. As trainers, it’s our job to help clients make fitness a priority by guiding them through this process.
Injuries happen. I’ve been hurt a few times in my gym career, and sometimes you need to rest as doctors recommend. But taking too much time off can be just as harmful because movement is medicine for the body. A bit of blood flow for healing can do wonders. If someone in a wheelchair can work out, so can you. Excuse busted.
Get some exercise equipment for your home that will last a lifetime, or ditch the equipment and use your own body. You can get in fantastic shape with exercises like push-ups, handstands, pistols, bodyweight squats, and plyometrics.
If you have kids, it’s even more important to prioritize your workouts. Not only do you need some time for yourself each day, but you also owe it to your kids to stay healthy as you age. Plus, setting a good example of staying active is a great lesson for your kids.
We often hear people say they’re not fitness experts and don’t know where to start. But learning is part of the process. We live in a connected world where you can find countless workouts, exercises, and videos online to get started. Even just taking a walk can improve your fitness. Grab a fitness book or reach out to us to get going!
Whether you’re in a small hotel room or at a nearby park, you can still work out while traveling with minimal equipment like a jump rope or just your body weight. No excuses!
One of my favorite excuses for skipping a personal training session is “I forgot to set my alarm,” which is right up there with “The dog ate my homework.” Often, it’s just a case of forgetting to set the alarm. Checking your alarm the night before or asking your partner to remind you can solve this problem if you exercise in the morning.
We’ve all made similar excuses, but now it’s time to recognize that they don’t hold up. Stop making these excuses, get active, and start living the life you deserve!
