Excuses to kick to the curb

With the new year poking it's head around the corner, with seasonal depression and certainly with COVID, it's been a challenge to keep ourselves motivated and focused on fitness goals. As a personal trainer, I've heard it all in terms of excuses. I'm here to dispel those very popular ones.

I do have a different approach to excuses though.

I don't approach excuses with a savage notion of what fitness is supposed to look like. The idea that fitness has to look a certain way, 60 minutes a day in a gym with total 100% focus is a myth. What is wrong with making fitness work for you instead?

The truth is that excuses are valid, they aren't meant to be thrashed and cut down. They are meant to be worked around, having compassion for yourself and understanding of your circumstances. Here are a few of my favorite excuses, and ways to work around them.

I don't have the time.

Here's the thing though, you do. There are 1440 minutes in a day and I need you to dedicate a few of those precious moments to your overall health and wellness. Again, who says that you need to do an hour daily and travel to the gym. 30 minutes is also an acceptable time frame, even split that up throughout the course of the day if you need to.

I don't have the money.

Perfect! You don't need money to workout. You have a body and that's all you need. A workout in a gym is lovely, a trainer to help you along the way is awesome, but we understand that it is not financially available to everyone. There are plenty of free workouts and videos available out there (keep an eye out for some on this blog). You can also follow some great trainers on social media that will put out free workouts for you!

I don't have the motivation.

Great. That's why I am here. Trainers are a great way to increase your motivation to workout. They are also an accountability system, making sure you actually show up to your appointment. If you cannot afford a trainer, there are plenty of apps out there that can help with motivation itself or with accountability in fitness.

Don't be afraid to find motivations for yourself too. Ask yourself what your goals are, and most importantly, what is the WHY behind those goals. Don't stay superficial, dig deep for the meaning.

I don't enjoy it.

Then make it enjoyable. Save an episode of a TV show or podcast you have been waiting to listen to. Workout while watching. Workout with friends and make it social if need be. Make sure to insert at least one thing you like during your workout. If you enjoy squatting, put some squats in there! If you enjoy dancing, take a break and dance around between every set.

I'm too old.

I'm admitting it. I HATE THIS EXCUSE. It is my least favorite and the one that holds no credence for me. Many, MANY studies show that fitness in seniors is extremely beneficial, regulating weight, decreasing the chance of many diseases and increasing mental health. You are never too old to get started, you just need a helping hand and safe exercises.