Working Out Isn’t Hard. Getting There Is. How to Work Through The Excuses Holding You Back.
How many times have you dragged yourself to a workout (moaning and groaning), just to finish and think to yourself, “Wow, I’m so happy I did that?”
No one has ever regretted a workout they finished.
This leads me to understand that exercising itself isn’t the issue.
It’s all the roadblocks between you and your workout:
All the false narratives you’re choosing to live by - “I’m not the type of person that enjoys working out.”
All the other things you’ve prioritized and aren’t willing to negotiate - “I can’t find the time,” but you spend an hour every morning and night scrolling through Instagram or watching several episodes of TV.
All the fears you’re letting rule your life - “I’m scared of getting hurt,” or “I’m scared of being judged,” or “I’m scared I won’t be good at it.”
The list goes on.
Look, adopting a new habit, a new routine is uncomfortable and it does take work.
I’m not going to sugarcoat that. Being uncomfortable isn’t something to be afraid of. Change can happen (no matter how old you are). The brain has an ability to modify, change, and adapt both structure and function throughout life and in response to experience (it’s called Neuroplasticity). But you have to be willing to be uncomfortable for a little. You can’t do the same thing and expect different results.
If you feel good about where you are right now, by all means, disregard this advice. It’s not for you. But if you don’t. If you’re unhappy with your relationship with exercise. If you’d like to exercise more, but always seem to have some excuse, read on.
I told this to a client of mine recently, and it really stuck:
Don’t think of it as trying to be better at self-motivating.
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not about motivation.
Think of it as being a better problem-solver.
For every resistance you feel, there’s a solution.
So, what is the number one thing that keeps you from exercising consistently?
Haven’t found something you enjoy that makes you feel good?
There are tons of different types of movement out there. Experiment around. Try some group classes. Get a friend to go to one with you if you’re intimidated to go alone. Try outdoor activities. Try sports. Try dancing.
Can’t find the time in your busy schedule?
For 1-3 days, time-block your day. Write down what you’re doing every 15-30-60min of your day (whatever you want). Are there times you spend doing nothing (or on Instagram) that you could be doing something else? Are you watching several episodes of TV instead of one? Can’t do a full hour? Do 30 min. Do 20 min. Do 15 min. It all counts. Something is better than nothing. Have kids? Get them involved. I do it all the time with my mommies :)
Don’t feel comfortable in the gym?
Do a workout on your own at home. Go to a class. Go for walks around your neighborhood. The gym isn’t the only place you can workout. You can also hire a trainer to get you comfortable with the gym. Wear things that make you feel comfortable. If you don’t like the way leggings look on your butt, workout with a sweater wrapped around it. You do you.
Scared of hurting yourself?
Hire a trainer to teach you the basics. You can also start with something you’re more comfortable with doing and build up the courage as you get stronger and more familiar with exercises.
It’s boring?
Create a fun ass playlist to listen to! Listen to a podcast or an audiobook. Try a class. Get a workout buddy. Go outside. Working out doesn’t have to be so dull. I’m a firm believer that if you get bored easily, it’s because you’re a boring person ;) figure it out.
Don’t have the energy?
9.5x out of 10 my clients feel more energized after their workouts than before (true statistic). Mental vs physical energy depletion is very different, and I don’t think enough people recognize the difference. If you’ve been sitting around at a desk all day, chances are you’re mentally fatigued rather than physically fatigued, and a workout could really help. Start with something short and less intimidating like yoga, barre, or a walk.
These are just a few of the things I’ve heard over the years that keep people from exercising consistently.
Where can you start?
Here’s what I’d recommend:
Write down all the “excuses” or “stories” that come up for you when you’re resisting working out.
Think of each as a problem you need to solve.
For each problem, I can assure you there are at least 3-5 different solutions you can try.
If you got this far, it’s because you struggle with exercise and you’re finding this helpful.
Let me finish by saying this:
Working out shouldn’t take over your life. It should compliment your life.
And with all its positive health benefits (mental and physical), it really should have a place.
Honestly, there’s no reason it shouldn’t.
So, what’s holding you back?
If you’re looking for a safe space where you'll receive support and guidance in achieving your health goals, you're right where you need to be :) Submit a client application to receive your free 15 min consultation with me. I work with clients all over the world helping those who are frustrated and confused become empowered and confident - changing their relationship with food, fitness and most importantly, themselves.
Hi, I’m Azul Corajoria, an Integrative Health Coach, Personal Trainer & Yoga Instructor. I support my clients in making step-by-step changes so that they can live a healthy and balanced life. By recognizing the interdependent roles of mindset, nutrition, and movement I educate and hold my clients accountable for achieving their health goals through lifestyle and behavior adjustments with an emphasis on self-care. Together, we navigate the contradictory world of nutrition through intuitive eating, practice mindful movement, and implement small mindset and lifestyle shifts that empower them to be their best selves in the easiest way possible.
