Tips for overcoming the barriers to exercise

“I know I should go to the gym, but I just don’t have the time.”

“I know exercising is good for me, but I just don’t see results fast enough.”

“I need to go to the gym, but I’m just so tired.” 

Have you ever said any of these or similar statements before? You’re not alone! Keep reading to get tips on how to overcome these and other barriers to exercise.

When it comes to making changes in our lifestyle, such as starting an exercise routine, one of the key elements of motivation for change is importance. We have to believe that exercise is worthwhile and that it will really make a difference in our lives.

We need to focus on why we want to exercise in order to overcome our barriers.

I won’t write one sentence about the benefits of exercise—because you already know them! When we are talking about the importance of exercise, I want to know what is important and meaningful to you. Ask yourself the following questions:

• What is most important to you, deep in your heart?
• What sort of person do you want to be?
• What is significant and meaningful to you?
• What do you want to stand for in this life?

Perhaps your children, your spouse, or your friends are important to you. Perhaps your job, your intellect or your self-worth is important to you. Write down your answers and then ask yourself:

• How does avoiding exercise impact these values?
• How might becoming more active impact these values?

When we make something personal and meaningful, it becomes important. When we connect what is important to us to a behavior change, then we become more motivated to do that behavior.

I would love to hear what is important and meaningful to you. What is your why when it comes to being more active?