No More Excuses: Ways To Overcome Barriers To Regular Exercise

Posted on Sep 05, 2008 | Comments 0

Finding excuses not to exercise is easy. The September issue of Mayo Clinic Women’s HealthSource offers ways to overcome common barriers with some creativity, flexibility and a different mindset. Here’s a sample:

Excuse: I don’t have time to exercise.

– Schedule exercise in your day as you would an appointment. If you wait to find time, it probably won’t happen.

– Turn off the TV. Free up time by watching one less program.

– Think activity rather than exercise. Mow the lawn; climb the stairs; park farther from your destination.

Excuse: I’m too old.

– It’s never too late to start. Even moderate physical activity, such as walking or raking leaves, can help prevent or delay age-associated conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.

Excuse: I’m too tired to exercise.

– Realize that exercising increases energy. You may be tired because you’re not exercising, or not getting enough sleep. Go to bed earlier.