You Know You Should Exercise… But…

I’ve been talking a lot lately about how exercise is meant for everyone and every body, because I want to create a space where you can finally drop the excuses and get moving. Your body craves movement, you feel better when you move, and you know you should exercise; so why is it so hard to take the steps and do the thing? I have some ideas why and solutions to overcome what’s holding you back. 

It’s Not Your Fault

Last week, I talked about body stereotypes we see in a lot of fitness advertising and in social media. I’m thrilled that some businesses are finally using realistic body types in their ads to be more inclusive and diverse, because it makes exercise less intimidating. Even clothing retailers like Old Navy have upped their online game to show real people in their clothes. Amazing! 

Since we’ve been fed images of only certain body types for so long, it’s no wonder the average person feels intimidated by setting foot into the gym or trying a new sport. It’s not your fault that you’ve been conditioned this way, and being aware of these subconscious “stories” is the first step in breaking them. Pay attention the next time you drive past a gym, or see people riding their bikes or going for a jog. They look just like you! And if they can do it, so can you.  

Your Body is Ready Right Now

Another misconception that might be holding you back is that you aren’t fit enough to work out. It sounds silly to say out loud, but I encounter people all the time that think they aren’t flexible enough to do Pilates. I explain that Pilates is designed to help them become flexible, and we all have to start somewhere. Again, this is partly the fault of the media and the stories we tell ourselves. So let’s take a step back and look at the facts. 

When someone is recovering from an illness, surgery, or an accident, one of the very first things recommended is to get the patient moving again. Even in the hospital, they want you to move. Then the next step in rehab is often physiotherapy. Why? Your body is designed to move! When your body is strong, it can support itself better and prevent further injuries.

As long as your doctor says you are okay to exercise, there is no reason you can’t do it. Of course, you do need to start where you are at. And if you think about it, that takes a heck of a lot of pressure off, doesn’t it? You can start now, right where you are. Let’s call this place “Level 1”. 

Levelling Up

Here you are at level one, just as you are. What will it take to get to level two? In my opinion, making the decision to get moving and taking your first action step is enough. (This is kind of fun, isn’t it?) And slowly, step after step, you will keep levelling up to reach new goals – whatever those are for you. Fitness isn’t about looking a certain way or being “ripped”, or whatever those stereotypes are. It’s about taking care of your body so you can do all of the things you love in life.  

What do you love to do, or dream of doing? Yes, for some people that may be running a marathon. But for others, it may be setting up the Christmas tree with the grandkids, or saying “yes” when the kids want to play soccer, or taking a bike tour in France when the world opens up again. That last one would certainly be a level up after “the great pause” we’ve all had, wouldn’t it? 

The Wrong Way to Do Fitness

Another reason I see many people hesitate to start exercising is because they think it will be hard. Now, fitness shouldn’t be easy, because it’s a way to challenge ourselves (and you were made to do hard things!). But it shouldn’t be painful or all-encompassing, either. Those approaches are hard to maintain and aren’t usually good for you, anyway. I’m talking about: 

• Quick weight loss challenges with lots of restrictions and rules
• Intense, sweaty workouts that don’t focus on technique or form
• Not being able to walk or move for days afterward
• Spending hours in the gym at a time

I shared a few weeks ago how many hours I used to spend in the gym. I loved the highest impact, sweatiest classes, and the no pain, no gain attitude. But eventually, I learned none of that is necessary.  

What Fitness Should Look Like

For most people, a good fitness routine should include just two things: fun and form. If you don’t find something you enjoy, you aren’t going to stick with it; and if you aren’t doing it correctly, why bother? Soon enough though, fitness will be something in your life that you are good at! 

Creating a fitness routine that works for you will take some trial and error. You’ll need to build a strong foundation with the fundamentals of good technique and form. It will take consistency, and a balance of cardio, strength, and mobility. The most important thing to keep in mind, though, is that it will take time to build a routine that suits you. And that’s perfectly fine. Start where you are, and level up from there. 

Tips to Get You Started

1. Don’t commit to too much at the start. Attempting to do six hour-long workouts after not exercising at all will be overwhelming. Instead, plan for three. If you miss one, move it to a new time on your schedule, or shorten the workout to fit three in.
2. Do a mini challenge, and see how small things add up. For example, I make myself use the upstairs bathroom when I’m at home, even when the downstairs one is closer. 
3. Learn the fundamentals of good form. If you are doing something new, or haven’t worked out in a long time, start with the fundamentals. This ensures you get the most out of your workouts while avoiding potential injuries. Even Peloton offers foundation classes to teach you how to pace yourself and use proper pedal strokes. 
4. Take recovery days. You should have one to three days a week that you rest and recover from the more difficult workouts. This doesn’t mean no moving, but could look like a walk, easy bike ride, or a gentle yoga or stretch class. 
5. Decide for yourself that you want this. You know you should exercise, but if you aren’t all in, you won’t stay committed. Being accountable with a friend is a great plan, but not if they have to convince you to participate. Do it for you.

No one, not even me, should have to convince you to move your body more often. You know you should exercise, and yes, there are hurdles to getting started. So think of the benefits (stronger heart, better sleep, fewer aches and pains, more options in life), begin to peel away the excuses, and when you’re ready, I’m here to help.