Step #1: Get over your hang-ups!

Why is it so hard for me to start exercising? I know it’s good for me. It seems like I have some form of resistance to getting in better shape.

“Exercise Resistance” or ER means a conscious or unconscious block against participating in a regular active program. Studies show that some people have barriers built up from past experiences that give them a negative mindset toward exercise and food. In many cases, this prevents a person from starting or following through on an exercise program.

RESENTMENT

I thought golden years were supposed to be filled with relaxing things to do, not more activities I usually put off before?

Building up resentment toward exercise goes much deeper than just not liking effort it takes to do it. Resentment brings out a rebellious attitude in us. The sooner you accept fact that exercise is going to have to be a part of rest of your life, more likely you will start — more likely you will continue exercising. Resentment is usually fueled by his cousins: Denial, Pride and Laziness. The best thing to do is never let them play together. Resentment is a form of pride.

FAILURE

The only failure is not starting. Success is not measured in numbers. It is measured in your growth through process. Just because your track record may show some ups and downs has no bearing on your future efforts. Plus, your self-worth is not based on how many times you started an exercise program. Fear of failure is an excuse to never try.

PERFECTION

If you think for one second that you are going to be perfect in sticking to a plan, forget it. It’s not possible for anyone. The truth is you will never be perfect. Perfectionism is an illusion.

COMPARISONS

The “INSIDE-OUT” approach to fitness differs from that of conventional wisdom. Most programs work on diet and exercise alone. They give suggestions on what foods to eat through recipes, calorie-counting books, and exercise tips. While this way may work in short run, eventually your motivation and desire to get in better shape disappears. In order to change your attitude and these unwanted behaviors, there are three things to learn about yourself:

How and what motivates you?

What are reasons behind your unwanted behaviors?

What kind of support system is good for you?

The “INSIDE-OUT” approach is an on-going process. In theory, it is a simple common sense idea. In practice, it will take some hope, a little faith in yourself, and patience.

The goal is for you to develop a lifestyle that reflects this way of thinking.

You cannot sustain motivation to be active without pure motives.