4 Reasons We Slack Off From Exercising
By Jenny Everett,SELF magazine
We all know that working out regularly is the first step to getting fit and unearthing those elusive flat abs. But why is it so darn hard to get to the gym? Here are four of the most common reasons we slack off -- and some smart, SELFy strategies for staying on track, according toexercise physiologist Tom Holland.
1. The Roadblock:Getting to the gym is a hassle -- and nearly impossible with your crazed schedule!
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How to Get Around It:"There are so many exercises you can do at home to keep in shape when you don't feel like shlepping to the gym. Simple body weight exercises, like push-ups, squats, lunges and tricep dips, are a few of the most effective exercises that you can do anywhere, anytime. Exercising at home is a great time to focus on really strengthening your core; do variations of crunches and plank exercises that will flatten that midsection and protect your back."
2. The Roadblock:You're utterly exhausted.
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How to Get Around it:If you're wiped out from the kids, your job and/or general life craziness, working out may be just what you need. Force yourself out the door, knowing that the energy and endorphin boost you get from exercising helps bust stress. And carving out "you" time is essential to your sanity when all of your energy and resources seem to be going to your family and boss. However, if you have been working out super hard, keep in mind that exhaustion can be a sign of overtraining. "Difficulty sleeping, crankiness, decreased desire to work out and decreased performance when you do exercise are all signs that you may be overdoing it," says Holland. "If that's the case, taking a few days to a week off will get you to the next level when you do return to exercising!
3. The Roadblock:You haven't seen results and you're frustrated.
How to Get Around it: "Completely switch your routine around! Always use dumbbells for strength training? Do a workout on machines only. Love your workout on the elliptical? Do 30 minutes on the StairMaster instead. Never use the cable machine? Use it exclusively for a week. Variation is the key to success."
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4. The Roadblock:You're bored with your routine.
How to Get Around it: "You need focus, a reason to work out, a definitive goal. Sign up for an event like a 5K or an organized bike ride. Make it a challenging goal, one that will push your limits and lead to a sense of satisfaction when you achieve it. Even better, do it while raising money for a charity you support to invest in yourself further. Having a specific goal and date for achieving it is a powerful tool in exercise adherence."
Tom Holland, owner of Tom Holland's Athletic Club in New Canaan, Conn., recently coached Juju Chang of "Good Morning America" through her first triathlon,along with SELF's editor-in chief.
What's your go-to excuse for skipping workouts?
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