Think you don’t have time to fit in a workout? Worried about not having a babysitter for the kids? Here are 5 ways to work your excuses in reverse.
1. ‘I got stuck at work.’
You dread seeing the look on your boss’s face when you tell her you have to leave by 5.30pm to make it to your boxing session, but mention these proven benefits of exercise when you are standing around the coffee maker and your boss will start to understand the bigger picture. Regular exercise has been proven to improve your memory, your ability to learn and your energy levels. In addition, it boosts your confidence as well as your immune system, so you won’t need as many sick days.
2. ‘I just got my hair done and I don’t want to mess it up.’
Exercise might ruin a blow-dry, but it can also give your hair the kind of textured, loose, beachy waves that people pay for at the salon. For this look, go with damp hair to yoga. A little bit of sweat and hanging upside down will have your hair looking naturally glam. Many gym regulars swear by dry shampoo, which is sold at pharmacies. Spray it on after the gym, massage it through your hair with your fingers, and presto.
3. ‘No babysitter.’
All kids love to run around. What a great opportunity to get fit and spend quality time with your children. Take them swimming, go for a bike ride, kick a ball around, play tag. If it’s too hot to go outside, turn on some music and have a dance party in your living room. You will have turned an inconvenience into a memorable afternoon, and your kids will be begging for more.
4. ‘Joining a gym is too expensive.’
You may have heard American advice columnist Ann Lander’s famous 1975 quote: “If you think education is expensive, try ignorance.” The same holds true for exercise. Often, the benefits you get from exercising – a clear mind and greater creativity – can help you make more money. Plus, there are endless ways to exercise for free, such as running, cycling, swimming in the ocean or a pool, as well as free YouTube videos for Pilates, yoga and all kinds of training.
5. ‘I don’t have time.’
If there is one thing you should make time for, it’s your health. Look at all the things you spend time on that don’t improve your health – and rearrange some of them. What you don’t have time for, perhaps, is social media. Or – gasp – the weekly visit to the salon. Besides, who will look at your nails when your toned body demands all the attention?