Lazy Girl’s Guide to Exercise

When I say I love to exercise, a more accurate statement might be that I love the results achieved by exercise.  I also love the time spent with my fellow exercising friends.  And the accountability is great!  But, I don’t care who you are, there are those days when it’s really easy to be talked out of a workout and talked into going to Biggby’s to chat over coffee!  

Whether you enjoy exercise or not, let’s face it - we all get lazy sometimes.   So, how do we keep ourselves motivated in between those accountability runs, walks, and workouts with friends?

The June Ladies’ Home Journal has a great article to help us do just that!  It’s as simple as a few mind tricks and changes:

1.)  TAKE THE FIRST STEP  Find a workout you actually enjoy.  This might take trying several types of workouts (Zumba, Pilates, running groups) before you find “the one”.  But, don’t give up!  Take the first step, get out there and try new things!

2.)  DRESS FOR SUCCESS  Don’t reach for old tees and baggy sweats.  Putting on fitness clothes may inspire you to get moving.  Studies show that wearing gym clothes actually helps you identify yourself as athletic and can be the incentive you need to exercise.

3.)  THINK SMALL  If your only fitness goal is to drop 20 pounds, that may seem overwhelming, causing frustration.  Celebrate the small steps in the right direction, like walking a mile without stopping, completing your first 5k, or completing 10 pushups in a row!

4.)  SAVOR THE AFTERGLOW  Exercising can be intense, but who doesn’t love that “I did it!” feeling that follows a great workout?  Studies show that the mere act of exercising can improve your body image, regardless of whether you lose weight or not.  Think of that feeling the next time you’re debating over working out or not. 

5.)  DOWNLOAD ENERGIZING TUNES  The right music can help distract you from monotony and fatigue, which may result in longer, more intense workouts.

6.)  KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE PRIZE  Instead of taking it one workout at a time, think about the long-term benefits.  Journal your achievements as a reminder of how far you’ve come.  You’re reaching meaningful goals, not to mention becoming healthier.  You’re also setting a great example for your family and friends.