I am a 59-year-old female who cannot get started in any form of exercise whatsoever. I don’t know what happened to me. It all seems so difficult for me for whatever reason. I used to walk (not a great deal) but I am not doing that now, at all! I am taking antidessants, thinking it would lift my spirits and I would have more energy. Nothing works!
Like Michael Jordan said, “If you think winning the NBA title is hard, wait until you try to win your second.” The same is true for exercise. Getting started in an exercise plan the first time around is a challenge, but maintaining it and getting back on track over and over is tough.
Here are some tips:
Be specific: If you want to lose 10 pounds, create a plan for you to be successful. Instead of just telling yourself “I will start to exercise,” try something like this: “I will walk to the park down the street every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for 20 minutes.”
Exercise for the right reason: Research shows that negative feelings are a frequent cause for quitting. Instead of beating yourself up for not being in shape, remind yourself how much better you feel right after an exercise session. Visualize how you will look in a few weeks if you keep it up. Keep in mind how the quality of your life improves when your body is strong and flexible, and when you have more energy and stamina.
Be creative: Being active with your family and friends can be a rewarding and satisfying experience. You will relieve stress and tension from the daily grind and improve the shape of your body too! You don’t need to always exercise alone — join a class, a walking club or play soccer with your kids. Whatever seems fun and interesting is the best way to start.