This article holds more relevance to those who
need encouragement or further information as to why they should exercise regularly.
First of all, nutrition. Our bodies are like
Formula One racing cars. (Yes even yours) They are designed to run on the
highest quality fuels. I.e. a balanced, varied wholefood diet with plenty of
water. It is really worth investing time and money in fresh local produce and
preparing it yourself at home. Make your dishes colourful, containing as many
different nutrients, vitamins and minerals as you can. Try to reduce your
intake of “dirty” processed foods. These effect you negatively even in your day
to day life. You don’t perform well physically, you feel drowsy, lethargic and
uninterested mentally.
Like any car or piece of machinery we all need
a good run out too. Up to very recently in our evolution we have constantly
been on the move, hunting, gathering and moving from place to place but modern
living has slowed us down so much we are inactive. It can feel like we are
being clogged up, and in many cases this literally is the case. A good workout enables us to
mentally clear the pipes, push positive “feel good” endorphins around the body
and get the blood pumping. You don’t have to run, you can walk, cycle, skate,
ski, go to the gym, swim or play a sport. Just get the body moving. Not only
does this benefit you mentally but it also puts a positive stress through the
body. We all have our very own
personalised vehicle body capable of so much, yet many of us sit down on our
backsides all day not using it. When it is working well it is the best feeling
in the world. Of course it is. You are getting the most out of it.
Change your psychology. Decide to get active. Chose
to enjoy it! It honestly doesn’t take long to get into a routine and when you
do you will be amazed at the difference you feel and the difference others see
in you both physically and emotionally.
The media forever remonstrates to us about the
health risks and subsequent stress to the NHS caused by our general poor
lifestyle. All very true and on its own should be enough encouragement to get
fit but it is pretty depressing and people live in the NOW. I say start exercising not just for your
future health but also because it makes you feel great! Move better, eat clean,
feel alert and experience life running through your cells. You have to
experience it to know it.
I appreciate some people simply are not interested,
or might be nervous about exercise. All I say is just give some form of
exercise ago in a nice comfortable setting for you. If a gym doesn’t work for
you try a sport or outdoor activity. You
may surprise yourself.
Common reasons people don’t exercise.
'I Don't Have Time.’
How much television do you watch? Can you do something
in the adverts or during programs? Can you record your show?
Be more organised so you can fit in some
exercise
Regular shorter sessions instead of infrequent
long workouts.
2: 'I'm Too Tired.'
Working out actually gives you more energy.
Your body makes feel-good hormones (endorphins), "and you're getting the
circulation going.
It may help to work out in the morning before
your day gets away from you.
Not a morning person? No problem. Do it
whenever you feel best.
Ensure you get a good night’s sleep every night
and eat well throughout the day. This will waken you up and improve work
productivity.
3:
'I can’t Because I’ve got Kids.’
Take the family for an activity they can all
join in with. Ie, walking, cycling, rock climbing, swimming.
Exercise Excuse No. 4: 'Exercise Is Boring.'
Find a physical activity you enjoy. If you feel
like the idea of the gym but get bored then challenge yourself technically (balance
coordination reactions) and regularly update and change your routine. Get a gym partner this really helps
motivation. Push each other on and even have a laugh too. It also
makes you more accountable to show up.
5:
'I've Tried Before.'
Goal setting – make goals small and realistic
and continuously update them. You will feel more like a success, not a failure
when you hit these goals. Keep a diary, log or blog to help monitor your
progress.
If it didn’t work before you may need to change
what you’re doing. Hire a recommended trainer.
In the end only you are responsible for your
body, and no one exercise for you. I believe for the reward of a long healthy,
happy life it is worth taking the time and investing in yourself.
Don’t forget there is plenty of help about both
professional and social.
Jamie-lee
