When Exercise Doesn't Work

• It’s too early to get up to exercise.

• It’s too dark and cold out to exercise.

• That treadmill is so boring.

• I don’t have time to take an aerobics class.

• The gym is too expensive.

• I feel ridiculous trying to learn that hip-hop workout.

• It hurts too much to exercise.

• I am so sore after exercising.

• I don’t have the energy to exercise.

• I hate to exercise.

The reasons people don’t enjoy a regular exercise routine are many. It brings up bad feelings since they know there are plenty of important of benefits that they are missing out on. The body was meant to be exercised and most people feel better when involved in physical activity. But that is not the case with the millions of people who are overwhelmed with by thought of exercising.

One major hurdle is fitting an exercise program into a busy schedule. The basic recommendation is 30-45 minutes three times a week. More time is included in driving to the gym, getting changed, showering, etc. It can be particularly challenging when work and other activities are already scheduled. A long workout, however, is not necessary to reap the benefits. Every walk across a parking lot, or up stairs is useful to the body, even if the activity was done in short spurts. A few minutes of weight lifting while dinner is cooking will add up over the course of a week of dinner making.

For others the problem is physical. Many people do not have enough energy to adequately perform exercise. A painful condition or pain resulting from movement are serious deterrents to exercise. Atrophied muscles, poor nutrition, or a chronic health condition may be the problem. Addressing these situations before proceeding with a very basic exercise program will help. A physician, chiropractor, physical therapist, and/or nutritionist can help monitor progress.

Not having established any good exercise habits while young makes it difficult, but not impossible to overcome. Physical education programs and sports in school lay the foundation. Fitness ends up on the back burner when career and family are priorities. But the practice can be restored at any age. Working out just because “you have to,” is not motivating. Working out in a group with a common goal, however, can be emotionally gratifying. For someone who just doesn’t enjoy exercise it can become a dramatically different experience when the focus is on some type of competition such as a walkathon, marathon or team sport. Preparing for the big day or building the skills for competition makes exercise a challenge instead of a chore.

Whatever the reason for avoiding exercise, a solution can be sought out so it becomes a comfortable and enjoyable activity. Seeking support from a health or fitness professional helps the goal seem more reachable. Getting healthy is an important reason for exercising but feeling a sense of accomplishment for overcoming mental barriers can be a greater reward, as well.

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