You know you should work out, but there always seems to be a good excuse not to.
There are likely many legitimate reasons why you, like many people, may struggle to stay active. Maybe you tell yourself, “I don’t have the time or energy.” “Working out is a chore.” Or, “I can’t afford a gym membership.”
These barriers may be very real. But if they are keeping you from working out, it’s crucial to find ways to overcome them. And here’s the thing. You can push past these and other exercise hurdles more easily than you may think. It just takes a little brainstorming for some real, practical solutions that you can then put in place.
Here are 5 common excuses for not being active and tips on how to push past each.
No problem. Walking or biking near your home or office saves you the time and hassle of driving to a gym. To make your workouts less time-consuming, you can also set up a workout space in your own home. Then, tailor your own strength and cardio workouts. Or check out the many free, daily workouts available to the public on Facebook Live and YouTube , where you can enjoy a variety of classes suited for all fitness levels. And, Silver&Fit® members can access workout videos available anytime on SilverandFit.com.
It can cost a lot to join a gym or buy your own equipment. But there are many ways to be active for little or no cost. Here are some examples:
There is very little risk to bones, muscles, or joints if you are healthy and take it slow. Activity doesn’t need to be hard to yield benefits. But see your doctor first if you have a health condition or you haven’t been active in a while. Your doctor can advise you on the best activities for you and give you tips on how to stay safe. When you’re ready to begin, start slowly and increase your activity gradually.
Pain keeps many adults from being active. But most people can enjoy physical activity. In fact, movement can actually ease some kinds of pain. Talk with your doctor or physical therapist about activities that are right for you.
It’s easy to get into a routine that doesn’t include being active. If you’re having a hard time getting motivated, team up with a friend or family member. Make regular dates to walk or do an activity of your choice. It’s harder to slack off when others depend on you. And, once you get more active, you’ll want to move more.
Being active can benefit your body, mind, and quality of life like few other things. It might seem harder as you get older, but the rewards are still well worth the effort.
Not a Silver&Fit® member? Learn more about everything the program has to offer, including more helpful healthy living tips like this, here on our website.
This information is not intended to take the place of regular medical care or advice. Please check with your doctor before using this information or beginning any self-care program. Images used for this article do not depict any members of the Silver&Fit program.
References
National Institute on Aging. (2020, April 30). Staying motivated to exercise: Tips for older adults. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/staying-motivated-exercise-tips-older-adults#motivated
Robinson, L., Smith, M., & Segal, J. (2024, July 19). Senior exercise and fitness tips. https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-living/exercise-and-fitness-as-you-age.htm
United States Department of Health and Human Services. (2018). Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans (2nd ed.). https://health.gov/paguidelines/second-edition/pdf/Physical_Activity_Guidelines_2nd_edition.pdf
World Health Organization. (2011). Global recommendations on physical activity for health: 65 years and above. https://www.un.org/other/afics/sites/www.un.org.other.afics/files/age-pdf-whos-physical-activity-recommendations-65yearsabove.pdf
This article was written by Nora Byrne, edited by Candace Hodges, and clinically reviewed by Jaynie Bjornaraa, PhD, MPH, PT, SCS, LAT, ATC, CSCS, CSPS, on September 19, 2024.