How can roadblocks to regular exercise be overcome?
Roadblock: Not enough time.
Solution: Schedule a regular, specific time of day for exercise.
Choose a convenient time.
Make the exercise session a priority of the day.
Exercise in the morning before breakfast, in the afternoon before lunch, or in the evening after getting home from work, but before dinner.
Roadblock: The health club is too far away. It is not “on my way'' to anywhere.
Solution: Choose an exercise easily performed around the house, e.g., stationary cycle, rowing machine, jumping rope, rebound trampoline, jumping jacks, walking, running, biking, swimming.
Roadblock: An exercise program costs a lot of money.
Solution: Choose an exercise which doesn't involve the purchase of equipment or club memberships, e.g., walking, running, jumping rope, etc.
Roadblock: It is unpleasant to get all sweaty when you exercise.
Solution: Perform exercises that can be done in an air‑conditioned environment (stationary cycle, rowing machine, or rebound trampoline). Sweating is not necessary for exercise to be worthwhile.
Roadblock: Exercise can be so boring.
Solution: Try indoor exercise in front of a TV or while listening to motivational tapes or energizing music.
Try outdoor exercise in tree‑lined or park‑like settings with interesting scenery and use a portable radio or tape player.
For either type of exercise, get a partner or group of people to exercise with; make it a social experience that will provide mutual motivation and encouragement.
Roadblock: Exercise makes your body sore.
Solution: Slowly phase an exercise program in; help your body adjust to the increased activity.
Roadblock: Implementing a program of exercise takes exceptional effort and planning; my schedule is already so full.
Solution: Your health and full recovery should be top priority. Make time and room in your life for an exercise program. To exercise is a free‑will choice to take care of yourself.
