Excuses are Not Reasons

    How many people do you know that constantly make excuses for why they can’t exercise? Chances are you know at least one. Maybe you are one of them?  If those people out there would spend that time that they are making excuses exercising, just imagine the possibilities. But let’s get one thing straight … excuses are not reasons.
  

  
    Studies show that 60% of American adults don't get the recommended amount of physical activity, and over 25% of adults are not active at all. These statistics reflect the fact that many of us simply don't exercise. What's your excuse? Here are a few common excuses that I often hear in my profession.  As well as my "Sparrow Feedback" on them. 

***Warning:  Harsh reality, brace yourselves! 

1. I don’t have time to exercise    SERIOUSLY?? People will always find time to do something they enjoy doing. Saying you don’t have time to exercise is just an excuse to get out of doing something you can’t be bothered doing. Now, I’m not saying that you are not a busy person (aren't we all). But I am certain that every person can find 15-60 minutes, somewhere in their day, to exercise.  I mean, in the duration of reading my blog you could get a 5 minute workout in. Make an appointment with yourself to exercise. Time is muscle and lets face it readers if you are not focused on your ass, nobody will be.

2. There is no gym close to my house   You can get in great shape without ever stepping foot into a gym. Buy some sandbells from hyperwear.com,  some resistance bands, jump rope, or just use your body weight if you can't afford equipment.  Your home and your backyard is by far the greatest gym facility ever . An at home cardio workout only requires a good pair of running shoes, self discipline,  and a creative mind. No gym? No excuse!

3. I don’t know how to exercise    You did not always know how to walk, or read, swim, or chew. Exercise is not rocket science. If you really have no idea how to be active, go and buy a fitness magazine, ask a friend who exercises regularly for some tips, or hire a personal trainer. There is absolutely no reason why people can’t engage in some form of physical activity. Unless your doctor has specifically told you that you should not exercise at all, start by taking a jog or a walk around the block. There are tons of tools to kick off this journey. 

4. I have no energy to exercise    Of course if you sit around all day doing nothing you will feel lazy. Exercise has been shown to increase energy levels and leave people feeling better about themselves and more energized. Get up off the couch and get moving, the days of bicep curls with your remote controls during "American Idol" is just not cutting it.  And watching "The Biggest Loser" might motivate you to live a healthy lifestyle but it is time to put action to it.   Start with just 10 minutes of activity each day. Soon you will have the energy and confidants to do more. You have nothing to lose but weight!

5. I have no one to work out with    If you can't depend on yourself and hold yourself responsible for your own actions, than how the hell are you depending on another? Do you really need someone to workout with? Do you need someone to wipe your butt too?  For most of us it would be nice to have some company an "accountability partner". What will happen to your motivation though if your workout partner is not as motivated as you when it comes to exercise? What if they start skipping workouts and you’re left to workout on your own anyway? Would you stop too? Unless you have someone you know who is totally committed to exercising with you like I have my amazing fiancee William Meyer, you really don’t need a workout partner. If you absolutely cannot workout alone … hire a trainer, participate in an exercise class, or take your furry friend for a walk. Ultimately, you hold the key to your destiny. Some reliable sources to hold you accountable are listed below if you live in the Hampton Roads area.

1) Coming soon to Ghent "Meyers Family Fitness"  a studio that is ran by my Fiancee.  The most educated trainer I know.  Serious Fitness, Seriously Fun!

2) Virginia Beach Field House Adult Fitness group.  Mondays and Wednesday Nights from 7-8pm.  Drop your kids off at the Fun Zone and come workout with me.  January 12th we will be holding a FREE class. 

     As you can see, there are solutions to each of these excuses and anymore you attempt to bring to my attention. Don’t let excuses get the better of you and keep you from reaching your goals. Focus instead on the benefits you will get from engaging in a regular exercise routine. You will be thankful you ditched the excuses in the end. This is the first day of the rest of your life. Stop going through the motions and start living.

Did You?