Articles
Barriers to fitness: Overcoming common challenges
Content
1. I don't have enough time to exercise
2. I think exercise is boring
3. I'm self-conscious about how I look
4. I'm too tired to exercise after work
5. I'm too lazy to exercise
6. I'm not athletic
7. I've tried to exercise in the past and failed
8. I can't afford health club fees
9. I'm afraid I'll hurt myself if I exercise
10. My family doesn't support my efforts
3. I'm self-conscious about how I look
Don't get down on yourself! Remind yourself that you're improving your cardiovascular health, or focus on how much stronger you feel after a workout.
- Avoid the crowd. If you're uncomfortable exercising around others, go solo at first. Try an exercise video or an activity-oriented video game. Or consider investing in a stationary bicycle, treadmill, stair-climbing machine or other piece of home exercise equipment.
- Focus on the future. Praise yourself for making a commitment to your health. And remember that as you become fitter and more comfortable exercising, your self-confidence is likely to improve as well.
