Every day there’s a different excuse for why you have to skip a workout. Work ran late, you overslept, you can’t miss that birthday dinner with friends; the list goes on and on. Whatever it is, we’re all guilty of making a good excuse to skip a workout at some point or another. Instead of giving yourself a reason to duck out, make it so you won’t want to.
Excuse: I don’t know what do in the gym.
No more: Join a Class
If you aimlessly wander around the gym, rendering your time there ineffective, then join a class. Instead of letting your gym time go to waste-or worse, skipping it because you think it will-make a commitment to a class. Not only does someone tell you exactly what to do, but it’s rude to sign up for a class and then skip it, giving you more motivation to follow through.
Excuse: I can’t motivate myself to go.
No more: Go With a Friend
There are few things that motivate you to work out as well as having a buddy because there’s a sense of commitment when you tell a friend you’ll workout with them. Whether it’s after work or first thing in the morning, it’s one more roadblock between you and your excuse. Even better, switch off who chooses the workout, whether it be running, yoga, weights, etc. Variety makes it easier to log your exercise hours every day.
Excuse: I don’t like running or going to the gym.
No more: Do What You Love
You don’t have to be lifting weights or running to get a good workout. As long as you’re active for 30 minutes a day you’re making progress. Instead of forcing yourself to do something you hate, choose something you love to do. Not sure where to start? Try:
- Dance class
- Rock climbing-indoor and outdoor
- Hiking
- Swimming
- Canoeing
- Paddle boarding
- Walking
- Biking
- Jump rope
Excuse: There’s just no time.
No more: Schedule It In
Like anything in your life, if it’s not scheduled in you’ll forget about it or blow it off. Take your workouts as seriously as dinner with friends, and make sure you find time for it in your regular calendar. Instead of trying to squeeze in a workout after work, knowing you always run out of the office late, make time in the morning or during lunch. When you plan your workout around your schedule, you’re more likely to make it happen. The best time to work out: your lunch break. Not only are you more likely to follow through because it’s better than working, but you get a jolt of energy for the second half of your day.
Excuse: I don’t have a gym membership.
No more: Make a Home Gym
No, I’m not talking about adding a room onto your house and filling it with expensive workout equipment. If you can do that, go for it. However, the easier way to accomplish the same thing is to turn your garage or an empty room into your workout space. Still won’t work? A few small items are all you need to make your workout count, and it’s easy to hide these in your living room or bedroom. Not sure what do? Buy a workout video and follow along.
