Obstacles to building a regular exercise regime

Not knowing what to do – It is not rare, especially when exercising after a long gap to be not sure what exercise to do. If possible, get help from a fitness coach. If that is not an option, then take small steps. Overdoing carries a risk of injury. Build endurance and strength gradually. If taking up running, do interval running, run for a minute, then walk for a minute and repeat multiple times. After doing it for a week, increase the duration of running, for eg run for two minutes, walk for a minute, and then repeat multiple times. When ready for running for longer periods, it is better to run on alternate days and use the days in between for other forms of exercise.

Not knowing how – When starting from no regular exercise, it is important to build exercise levels gradually. Use a variety of exercises so that different muscle groups are used. Also strengthening of leg muscles is important before taking up running as a regular habit. A key guideline is to exercise just up to the stage where there is pain and no further. Remember a brisk walk for thirty minutes can easily burn 200 calories.

Not knowing when - Lack of time is mentioned as a reason for not taking up exercise. This is sometimes a level of energy issue masquerading as lack of time. Choose the time that suits you, for some it could be morning, others it could be evening and for others it could be lunchtime break.

Not having a clear why – Spend a bit of time considering the reason for having a higher level of fitness. After all, mental well-being and physical well-being are closely linked. Effort spent building fitness now will reap huge rewards in the years ahead.

If your why is clear enough, you will be able to accomplish it anyhow.