Jim Rohn said, ”If you really want to do something, you’ll find a way. If you don’t, you’ll find an excuse.” While many people have legitimate reasons for not being more physically active, some of us need a bit of motivation.
What better than knowing that physical activity improves physical and mental health? So why do adults not exercise, and how can they change that?
Financial Barrier
Money is the common reason people postpone or completely eliminate the possibility of working out regularly. It is a valid obstacle that, luckily, in this day and age, can be overcome easily.
Suppose financial constraints prevent you from incorporating physical activity into your daily or weekly routines. In that case, we have a few suggestions for you because alternatives are all over the (digital) place.
First, consider using a bike for commuting. Also, if you use public transportation, consider getting off the bus or train a couple of stops earlier and walking the rest of the route.
Next, you can look for outdoor gyms, usually installed in parks. See if a green area near you has one, and give it a try. Walk whenever you can and use the stairs instead of an elevator.
Finally, you can exercise at home. No equipment is needed, given the variety of bodyweight workout programs available online. YouTube is an inexhaustible source of free videos, with instructors guiding you through the exercise routine. It’ll be like having a personal trainer in your living room.
You Can’t Find a Workout Buddy
You may think no one from your surroundings is interested in working out. But what if your friends and family think the same about you? So you never know until you ask. You may be surprised how many people are open to building a new habit.
How fun physical activity is depends on how you approach it. If you see it as an obligation, of course, you will not enjoy it. Instead, think of it as a way to spend quality time with loved ones.
Teaching the kids about the benefits of being physically active is essential for their development. Remember, they best learn by example. Here’s what you can do: Gather your household members and suggest a physical activity you can all practice together.
You can play football or baseball or go on an hour-long bike ride. You can start jogging with your kids or take relaxing walks. As a low-intensity activity, walks are ideal for spending time in the fresh air, moving your body, and having nice family conversations.
Another option is to ask a close friend or a coworker if they are interested in becoming your workout buddy. It is easier not to have to go through the initial phase alone. Lastly, you can go to the gym and join group workout sessions.
You Can’t Squeeze It Into Your Busy Schedule
Do you also feel like our lives are one big production line forcing us to act fast so no task stays unfinished? Such a lifestyle is particularly challenging for families with kids – although navigating everyday life is physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding whether or not you are a parent.
But are we really that busy that we can’t spend 15 minutes or half on physical activity, or do we not know how to prioritize?
Needless to say, anyone should organize their life the way it suits them best. This is not about evaluating anyone’s choices but encouraging those interested in becoming more physically active to reflect on their time and energy and where they invest them.
Say you spend two hours daily on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube. That’s about 14 hours a week.
Taking a small part of that time to go for a walk, ride a bike, or do a 20-minute workout at home at least three times a week will improve your mood, boost your energy levels, and increase your productivity. You’ll also treat yourself to a much-needed time off from social media.
Some people are process-oriented, while others focus on results. Choosing a physical activity starts with determining what motivates you. Yes, it is that simple (and fun, we promise).