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I don't want to hear it!
Your excuse, that is! Summer is here, and it's a perfect time of the year to let our workouts take a backseat to everything else, right? Wrong ! Summertime is when we see everything that is “routine” slow down. We find ourselves deciding not to work out as much because the kids are at home for summer vacation, we're traveling more, it's too hot, we're too busy having fun… You name it; I've heard the excuse! Here are the top four most-used excuses, and how to keep them from becoming fitness downfalls.
“It's too hot!”
Unless you live down here in the South or closer to the equator, you aren't allowed to use that excuse! Secondly, it's a lame excuse! There are many ways to beat the heat; find one that works for you. Here are some ideas:
- If you work out outside, plan to do it earlier in the morning or later in the evening. If you're a runner, run through yours or your neighbors' sprinklers first thing in the morning to cool off.
- If your workout room stays warm, get a good box fan. They're cheap and you can find one anywhere.
- Change up your routine to add in swimming or water aerobics.
- Drink more water and keep a wet cloth close. Place the wet cloth on the back of your neck for a few seconds when you take a break.
“The kids are in the way!”
I have two little ones myself, and yes, they really can get in your way. Here are some tips to keep them occupied while you burn calories.
- Enlist their help! Have your little ones play “Ready ball!” They can hand you your towel, your water bottle, and even some of your lighter props as you need them. They can also practice their counting skills as you do your repetitions.
- Make them your workout partners! Teach older children your exercises and modify them so they can exercise with you.
- Use a neighbor for an hour a day. Trade sitting services with your kids' friends' parents. If they watch your children for an hour, return the favor later in the day or in the week.
- Create “mommy time” for you and “alone time” for the children. They occur at the same time. Mommy gets to work out during “mommy time” and the kids must learn to occupy themselves during “alone time.” This works well for shorter workout days.
“We're traveling too much this summer.”
And your point is? There are plenty of things you can do when away from home. Plus, The FIRM has an “On the Go” kit that you can take with you.
- Take advantage of the fitness center in the hotel or resort.
- If there is no fitness center, use the hallways for walking lunges, power marches or jogs, shuffles, and push-ups. You can create your own routine.
- If the weather is nice, take a brisk walk or jog, swim, or get a game of volleyball or soccer going.
“I am just too busy.”
The summertime is supposed to be a time for relaxing, enjoying the kids being at home, and enjoying the sunshine and warm temperatures. Don't overload yourself with more than you can handle!
- Say no. Don't let extraneous issues add more stress to your day and keep you from getting in the one thing that relieves your stress: your workout!
- Prioritize. Up until this point, your workouts have been a priority. Why let that change?
- Instead of doing longer workouts, break it up and do two shorter workouts, splitting them up throughout the day. Sometimes it's easier to fit 30 minutes first thing in the morning and then the other 30 minutes mid-afternoon.
- Cut yourself some slack. Give yourself more time to get your duties finished. Put some things on the back burner for tomorrow, but get your workout in today!
There are so many more excuses that you will contemplate using this summer, but stop yourself. Keep making your workouts a priority. Keep fitness and being healthy part of your lifestyle. And don't let summertime be where all your hard work stops. You have come so far already — why stop now?
Article courtesy of The FIRM Believers Club, an online community that helps you reach your fitness goals. With maximum-efficiency home workouts, support and motivation from The FIRM Master Instructors, daily tips, personalized workout rotation calendars, and access to other members through discussion boards, The Club provides all the tools you need to get in the shape you want.
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Jul 2, 2008 10:59:26 PM
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