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• “I have no time to work out.”
• “I don’t like to sweat.”
• “I don’t like to exercise. I never have.”
• “I don’t even want to try; because, I know I won’t be able to keep up.”
• “I’d love to exercise, but I just had physical therapy.”

Sounds familiar? Probably yes…chances are that you are among the majority of people, who don’t exercise. In fact, research tells us that only 20% of the population exercises. Yes, ONLY 20%! Most of us don’t exercise regularly, despite knowing how beneficial it is, and that it can prevent or reduce the risk of chronic diseases. According to the 2011 review, published in the Journal of Applied Physiology, exercising is one of the most effective ways to improve mental and physical health, without the side effects of many pharmacological treatments. We can improve our health and prevent disease by doing as little as 10 minute exercises, a few times a day! Yet, most of us still make excuses.

So what is keeping the other 80% of our society from exercising? I don’t think it’s because of laziness. However, I believe that psychological attitude and behavior are the keys to understanding why we don’t exercise enough. Let me elaborate with a familiar example: Food. We all enjoy food. (Sometimes, maybe too much!) We have a positive response to food, because it satisfies us. However, not all food has a positive impact on our body. I personally try to stay away from processed food, fast food or even most restaurants, because they add too much salt, sugar and additives. Yet, I still dine out, because it satisfies me; plus, I don’t want to cook every night! Not surprisingly, the same logic applies to exercise.

When it comes to exercise, if you believe in its positive outcomes, and if society makes it a norm of healthy behavior, it will produce positive results, and miracles will happen! Imagine if your family or your spouse supported you in your efforts. Would that change your attitude towards exercise? Would you feel more motivated? Would you then continue, after seeing it payoff?

I am not a psychologist; I just know what positive effects exercise has on my 79-year-old husband and me. If I could no longer move about and get my “daily fix” of exercise, how would that make me feel? Would I adapt? I think so. I would seek out whatever means available, in order to remain physically active and sane.

Perhaps, you don’t have to look far, as you ponder ways to make this day or your New Year different. See what support is around you. Dip your toe in the water (great for arthritis). Learn a new dance routine (good for the brain too) or jog around the block, as if you have no cares in the world.

Call me for a consultation, or buy yourself a bunch of exercise videos (one is never enough). Either way, we are here to support you. Call Lori Michiel Fitness or click on the contact form for more information.

 

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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