Only 15% of people in the United States exercise for more than 22 minutes per day. I was so shocked by that statistic that I had to go back and research it. And it’s true, there are a lot of people in this country that don’t move at all. And it’s killing us.

What’s keeping you from moving?

I understand how it can happen because I hear the reasons all the time… 

“I don’t have time.” When you’re stressed out and have a lot on your plate, is your workout the first thing to go? It can feel like it’s just one more thing, especially if it’s not a part of your everyday routine.

“It hurts.” As you get older, your body isn’t as resilient and you also might have to deal with injuries. That can be frustrating because it means that you can’t just jump into a workout, especially if you’ve been away from it for a while. You have to start gently, carefully, and mindfully. And who has time for that?

“It’s not fun.” Maybe you think working out is boring. Maybe you hate getting sweaty and feeling like your muscles are jello. Or maybe you feel like the classes are too complicated or difficult to push through. 

“It’s intimidating.” There’s nothing like walking into a class for the first time or venturing over to the weight lifting equipment. Even if you stand in the back of the class or try to use the equipment in the corner, you’re surrounded by mirrors and it can feel like everyone belongs except for you.

All of these feelings are normal. And you’re not alone in using those reasons as an excuse to not exercise. But at a certain point, you have to decide to confront your excuses and move beyond them. I can help you declutter your schedule, work around injuries, find a workout you enjoy, and show you how to use the equipment so you know what to do. But you have to decide to do it.

It’s not about vanity, it’s about sanity

The bottom line is that exercise matters. Yes, it’s nice to look good. It’s nice to lose fat and gain muscle. But it’s about so much more than that…

• Exercise reduces your stress hormones and boosts your happy hormones, giving your body a better hormonal balance.
• Exercise reduces “brain fog” by boosting endorphins and dopamine while sweating out toxins and pumping the glucose out of your muscles. 
• Exercise increases your energy because the more energy you burn, the more energy your body creates.
• Exercise decreases bone density loss and improves your balance, reducing your risk of injury as you age.

Sitting is the new smoking

Consistent exercise is important, but it can’t completely counteract a sedentary lifestyle. A whole host of studies show that extended time spent sitting is linked to disease and a shorter lifespan. One in four people sit for more than 8 hours per day. And women are more likely to sit for longer periods than men.

Can you guess why?

It’s because you’re putting everyone else first. You are sitting and taking care of everything for everyone at work and at home and you aren’t prioritizing your health or wellbeing. You aren’t taking care of yourself. 

The best way to make a change

One of the key ways to change what you’re doing, is to surround yourself with people who do prioritize their health. Not only will you have support in changing your mindset, but you’ll have people who will want to exercise with you. Group fitness is a great place to start when you want to make changes to your health and lifestyle. Whether it’s group classes or group coaching, you’ll find support, energy, and accountability. 

If you’re ready to find that level of group support, send me a message. I’m ready to facilitate it! You can make the changes you want to make, and you’ll find some sanity along the way!