To busy, tired, lack motivation, no interest, mentally drained, hungry, in a hurry, must complete the task list? What else can we add to this list as to why we don’t want to work out and exercise? We have many distractions and reasons not to do it. However, you will never regret doing the workout you did not want to do.
Why?
Regular physical activity is a preventative measure for overall health and quality of life. It is important because it helps:
- Maintain a healthy weight and boots metabolism
- Strengthens muscles and bones
- Reduces risk of chronic diseases (heart disease and diabetes)
- Improves mental health by reducing stress
- Boosts energy levels and endurance
- Improves quality of sleep
- Builds up core strength which helps improve balance
Not exercising regularly can have several negative consequences to our health. Just take the list above and change the results to the opposite. So, instead of maintaining healthy weight and boosting metabolism, the results can be that the lack of exercise can lead to weight gain and lower metabolism. The same is true with the rest of the list.
How?
For health benefits, the guidelines suggest getting 150 minuets of moderate exercise per week. That boils down to about 22 minuets each day. This does not have to be done all at one time. Small amounts of physical activity can also be helpful. Short bursts of activity throughout the day can add up to health improvements.
Can you find 5 minutes, a few times a day, to do something for yourself? 5 minutes, that is all it takes. It seems that we can find the time to do the things that we want to do in our day.
What?
Any type of movement is beneficial. Some examples that can be done in a short about of time are:
- Walk around the block or walk to the mailbox
- Take the stairs at the office, mall, airport, Dr office, etc.
- Park away from the entrance, look for the parking place that is farthest away.
- Do squats during commercials or while folding laundry.
- Complete 10 pushups before a meal.
We can’t ignore our health. We can be proactive and take care of it by exercising regularly. Because of all the benefits, you will never regret doing the workout you did not want to do.