A lot of people understand that they should focus on their fitness. Yet not everyone actually does it. Even the people who want to improve their health and fitness often end up not doing so, all because they perceive that there are some challenges that they cannot overcome. It’s normal for people to look for excuses not to do something — but fitness is one of those things where it’s better to power through the barriers and just get to work.
In this blog, we’ll take a look at some of the most common challenges, and also offer advice on how you can move past them.
Time Issues
It takes time to exercise. There’s no avoiding it. While there are some “seven-minute workout” apps out there, they won’t help you to reach the level of fitness that you’re looking for. Of course, these days, it feels like time is at a premium. Not many people can dedicate two hours to working up a sweat. But remember: you don’t need that much time. If you’re going to the gym, then an hour will do. The secret is to make working out as convenient as possible. It’s always a good idea to join the gym that’s closest to you, even if it’s not the best gym in the area. If the gym is too far away, then look at doing exercise in your local area. Push ups, pull ups, and a run in your neighborhood will set you on the right path.
Money Matters
You’ll need to spend money if you’re going to join a gym. And depending on where you live, the cost of membership might be more than you’d like to pay. There are two things to say about this. First of all, an investment in your fitness is an investment in yourself. You’ll spend money, but the benefits will be worth it. The second thing is that you don’t need to spend all that time. If the monthly gym membership costs too much, then you could buy some home gym equipment and work out at home. There are also plenty of equipment-free exercises you can do at home that’ll get you fitter and stronger.
Not Seeing Results
People go to the gym for a wide range of reasons. But no matter what the goal is, people expect to see results. After all, if you’re going to do something, you may as well get something from it! However, it’s important to remember that results don’t happen overnight. In fact, you may not see results for the first six weeks after you begin your exercise. Many people give up just before they’d begin to see some definition in their arms or that they’re looking slimmer. You don’t have to commit to a lifetime of fitness, but it can be a good idea to stick with it for at least three months.
Unsure of What to Do
It can be a little intimidating to go to a gym, it’s true, especially if it’s your first time. You may not be sure of what you should be doing there. While some of the equipment in the gym is self-explanatory and easy to use, there are others, such as free weights, where you need to know what you’re doing. But if there’s one thing to know, it’s that there are always ways to learn how to do something. Websites such as A Lean Life have a tonne of resources that will help you understand the exercises that will lead to great results. Additionally, try not to worry about what other people will think about what you’re doing in the gym. The truth is that people who are there are focused on what they’re doing, not what you’re doing!
You Don’t Enjoy the Gym
One of the biggest complaints people have about going to the gym and exercising is that they find it boring. They just don’t want to spend an hour on cardio machines and lifting weights. That’s understandable. However, remember that there are always ways to make exercise more interesting. Let’s say you’re going to the gym, for example. You’ll find that your time there flies by if you’re listening to a well-curated playlist or podcast. It won’t be long before you actually enjoy going to the gym because you know that it’s good for you, and it’s also a time for you to disconnect and focus on yourself for a little while.
Low Energy
If you’re feeling tired and out of energy, then the last thing you’ll want to do is go to the gym. And actually, in that scenario, it might be a good idea to rest if you’ve been pushing your body. However, if you’re not exercising because you’re always low energy, then it’ll be worth powering through. Making exercise a regular part of your life is a good way to give your energy levels a boost. It sounds counterproductive to do more when you’re feeling tired, but for whatever reason, it works. Start slow, work up a sweat, and you’ll find that you’ve got energy to burn before too long.
Not Understanding the Benefits
Finally, people often don’t commit to working out because they don’t fully understand the benefits. Many people think that it’s just a way to look better, and if you’re not too interested in your appearance, then why do it? The truth is that most people don’t spend time in the gym because they want to look good. They do it because they want to feel good. The mental health benefits of exercise are extensive, thanks to the release of the feel-good chemicals that it produces. There are other benefits to exercising, too, such as more energy and a more robust immune system.
And if you are going to the gym because you want to look better, then fear not — that’ll also be a happy consequence of your efforts.
Let’s stop the excuses in 2023. Investing in your fitness is one of the best investments you can make!
