The time has come for me to re-introduce exercise back into my life. Part of me is looking forward to moving my body on a regular basis again but another part of me is feeling a little reluctant. Why? Well, because I know the first few weeks/months will be a little rough. I’m not looking forward to:
- Soreness (although it’s a good soreness…it’s still a little uncomfortable)
- Tiredness (it’s been my experience that initially I’m tired and drained after working out. The whole energy thing and feeling wonderful afterwards doesn’t kick in until 2 months into it). So I’ll have to persevere.
- Finding the right time that works for me
- Fighting the crowds at the gym especially this time of year
- Possibly triggering my back and knee pain
- Sweating out my hair (okay so this one is cop out, but it is a factor)
Now I could let all of these things stop me from getting started and quite frankly I have. But I know they are just excuses and to that I say NO MORE! So, here are four things I’m going to focus on to help me fall back in love with exercising again:
Focus On How I Feel After I Finish Exercising
The hardest part for me is always getting started. Once I’m in motion and after I’m done, I have never regretted working out. Now don’t get me wrong, depending on the type of workout, you might witness me scowling and fussing BUT when it’s all said and done it’s a wonderful feeling both physically and mentally and that’s what I’m going to focus on.
Make Exercise A No Other Option Policy For Myself
This is the strategy I used three years ago to kick things off. I decided that I would exercise every day for 30 days straight no matter what, and I did it! I did not let my work schedule, my asthma, my cycle, a headache, NOTHING stop me from working out. That did a couple of things for me. It built in the consistency I needed. I got used to it and wanted to keep going beyond the 30 days, and it showed me that I could push passed my excuses to get it done.
Give Myself A Lot Of Credit
When it comes down to moving my body, every step that I take and every step that I am ABLE to take is a step in the right direction. I no longer take that for granted and therefore will give myself credit every step of the way!
Focus On My Progress
Progress not perfection is the theme of my journey. I know that the longer I am consistent, the stronger, better and faster I will become. My 3.5 out of breath pace today will be my warm up in the future. The 15 minute barely able to make it eliptical workout today will soon be my take it easy workout in a few months. Every workout will serve to build me up and make me better.
Your Turn To Share
In what ways will you make exercising something you look forward to doing on a consistent basis?