Do the words “exercise” or “workout” have a negative connotation for you? Do you find it difficult to get motivated to exercise/workout, because what you believe to be a proper exercise/workout regimen seems overwhelming or not enjoyable? Do you tend to be hard on yourself if you’re not going to the gym, a studio class, etc. a certain number of days a week?
If so, perhaps a mindset shift that could come with using different terminology and setting a lower bar may give you a refreshed perspective. What would happen, for example, if you decided instead to simply incorporate more “movement” in your life? Or made an effort to “sit less”? Or worked on “getting stronger”? None of these actually requires you to schedule a 60-minute studio class or get yourself to the gym and you can give yourself credit for the small things you do each day that meet these criteria. The simplicity of them also provides you with flexibility to find what you enjoy doing within these guidelines.
Some examples that fit these guidelines:
- Parking your car at the back of a parking lot so that you get a longer walk in when you go to the grocery store
- Walking your dog
- Dancing to a great song that is playing on your favorite Pandora station
- Doing 10 minutes of yoga
- Playing with your kids or a pet
- Standing at your desk for part of your work day instead of sitting
- Taking a break from work to do 10 squats or push-ups
Along these lines, what ideas come to mind for you? All of these meet a goal of moving more, sitting less, and getting stronger, so don’t forget to give yourself credit for the small things you do every day.
Many of my clients have a long-term vision of themselves feeling healthy and active when they are in their later years. If you have a similar vision for yourself, then making sure you are moving more, sitting less, and building strength now can contribute to realizing that vision. How might you enjoy getting up to move and challenge your body today?