Five Common Exercise Excuses . . . And How to Get Past Them:

 

Since we're all about to put on some extra holiday pounds, it's time to think about how to take them OFF.  If you're like us, you THINK about exercise . . . then think up excuses to avoid it.  Here are five of the top exercise excuses, and ways to beat them.

 #1.)  I don't have time. If you have a DVR . . . and you watch at least one hour of TV a day . . . you have time to exercise.  Use the DVR to skip all the commercials, and a 60-minute show becomes 40 minutes.  Then you can exercise for 20.

 --Or you can work out WHILE you're watching, by jumping rope or lifting weights.  The point is, you can ALWAYS find enough time if you care enough about your health.

 

#2.)  I'm too tired.  Here's the thing:  Working out gives you MORE energy.   Do it first thing after you wake up, and you'll feel better throughout the day.

 

#3.)  I have kids.   In case you hadn't noticed . . . your kids LOVE to exercise.  So just take them with you.  Go bike riding, or go to the park.  If they play sports, you can even walk around the field while you watch the game.  Anything's better than nothing.

  

#4.)  Exercise is boring.  Yeah, it can be, but you don't have to run on a treadmill.  Do something interesting, like taking dance classes or even starting a garden.  Or exercise with other people.  If you HAVE to use a treadmill . . . put on headphones or watch TV.

  

#5.)  I'll just end up quitting anyway.  Start small, with goals you know you can reach.  Exercise with a buddy who can keep you accountable.  And keep a log on Facebook, so your friends can encourage you when you make progress.

 --Exercise makes you healthy.  And being healthy makes you LIVE LONGER.  Plus, you LOOK BETTER.  If you can think of it in those terms . . . no excuse will stand up, this time of year, or whenever.  (WebMD)