As human beings, we tend to have this extreme love/hate relationship with the gym. We go on health kicks for about a week and then we usually give up once we bite into that slice of pizza (or 10).
We love the feeling of a decent workout and how refreshed we feel afterwards. But that's the thing, actually finding the power to get up and go is so hard. Working yourself up to work out is actually more difficult than the workout itself. But hey, kudos to those who work their butts off at the gym or go for that early morning run.
We've all made at least one these excuses from time to time to avoid some gym time, just admit it.
1.The Infamous..."I'll Just Start Tomorrow"
This is probably the most common excuse for escaping some gym time. It starts with tomorrow, eh... maybe Monday? or next year? Procrastination is the name of the game, and you're definitely winning. You tell yourself you'll go tomorrow to make yourself feel better but do you actually go? lets be real here (no).
2. I Don't Have Time
By the time you make the decision to even think about working out, it's too late. You just can't go for that run, its way too dark out. Anyway, I think the gym closes early on Tuesdays? No, it doesn't. That paper you've been putting off for weeks is due tomorrow so you are just don't have any time for the gym. The truth is, there is always time for the gym you just need to be willing to make some. Wake up early and go for a jog or do an at-home workout, you'll feel better.
3. I'm Still Sore From The Other Day
Sure, we all need some time for recovery because we don't want to over do it and get hurt. Of course, if you're in so much pain you can't go on with your day, you can probably skip the workout. Soreness is actually a good sign though and is encouraging for that daily workout.Soreness shows that you're really making a difference in your body, even if it doesn't feel that way. Soreness is caused by microscopic tears in the muscle tissue that and torn and rebuilt. To recover quicker, try some protein right after a workout and get your butt to the gym. Try working on a different body part, stretching or even trying some yoga, just keep going!
4. I'm Too Tired
So, we all can't get our 8 hours of sleep. Choosing to workout over sleeping in is such a difficult decision to make, especially if you didn't have a good nights sleep. Sleep and exercise are essential to maintaining your mental and physical health, and they are both equally important. Studies have shown that even 30-40 minutes of moderate to vigorous aerobic exercise 3-4 times a week can help you get a better nights sleep. So create some balance and work it out.
4. It's Too Hot or Cold Outside
Classic...it's 90 and sunny so its too hot, or flurrying outside so the jog can wait for nicer weather. Sometimes the weather gets in the way of our daily routine but they actually make clothing specifically for these reasons. Not to mention, gym memberships! The weather may not be perfect but don't let this get in the way of your health.
5. I'll Just Eat a Salad To Make up For It?
You're so proud of yourself that you just picked a salad over pizza that you decide to skip the gym as a reward...no. A healthy diet is undoubtedly equally as important as getting in your weekly workouts. Diet is the key to shedding some weight, gaining muscle and feeling good, inside and out. The two can substitute each other. You can't stop eating and only workout, just as you can't stop working out and eating healthy instead. Total health is about a healthy balance of the two.
