Beat your fitness obstacles

What’s your biggest workout worry? Whatever it is, don’t let it stop you! Tackle your obstacles head on and you’ll soon be moving more, and at your own pace…
Published 15 December, 2017

Worry 1: ‘I’m not sporty’

That’s fine! Getting active doesn’t have to mean hitting the gym or playing a sport – you don’t have to be an athlete to move more. Instead, focus on movement you enjoy. It could be taking a stroll through your neighbourhood, walking the dog, joining the kids at the playground… Pick the activity you enjoy doing the most and you’ll be more likely to stick to it (without ever stepping foot in a gym, if that’s not your thing!)

 

Worry 2: ‘I’m not seeing results’

As your Coach or fellow members will tell you, keeping active is an important part of your journey to a healthier you, but it’s not a guaranteed short cut to losing weight faster. So if you go to the gym every day for a week but don’t have a loss, don’t despair! Instead, think about the feel-good benefits: you might feel more energetic or positive, you might look more toned, or maybe you’ve even lost a few inches. It’s not all about the number on the scales, after all! But it’s also important to challenge yourself – if you’ve been working out at the same level for several weeks, why not up the number of reps or go a bit quicker?

 

Worry 3: ‘I can’t spare the time or cash’

Whether you’ve got a busy job, a family to take care of or an active social life, it’s easy to put your workout (and yourself) at the bottom of the priority list. But think of activity as your ‘me time’ during the week, and make a point to schedule it in. And remember that it’s not selfish to take time out for yourself – it could actually make you feel happier and healthier, making you better able to tackle the rest of your obligations. Exercise doesn’t have to be expensive, either. If you can’t afford the gym, why not form a walking group with other members, see if your local council offers free activities such as those run by Our Parks, or check out the home workout videos on the Fitness Hub? They’re all free, fun ways to get fit.