Much like anything else, working out comes naturally to some, while others struggle to find that sweet spot of routine, consistency and results.
Over the years, I’ve always tried to share advice, tips and motivation to individuals who were curious about starting their fitness journey.
It can be really tough, especially for those who have sedentary lifestyles. Getting up and active seems like such a physical task but it’s extremely mental as well.
How many times have you or person you’ve known said:
“I’ll just start gonna start working out next week.”
Then end up going once or worse yet, never actually setting foot in the gym?
I’ve heard it countless times. And the reasons always seem to vary but for the most part, they all fall into the four statements below.
1) Not enough time
By far, the most common reason people avoid working out is the feeling of not having enough time. In a lot of cases, it’s completely valid.
There are individuals who may work extremely long hours, or have prior engagements that don’t allow them the freedom to spend time commuting to and from the gym.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that you have to spend hours upon hours working out to get yourself in shape.
The truth is that you can establish the building blocks to an active, healthy lifestyle by spending 30 minutes to an hour.
Movement is the key.
Many people spend a majority of their time in three states: standing, sitting or walking. Most people avoid jogging or even actively doing something that involves movement.
I’ve had people tell me that they haven’t ran in years.
The solution
Get out a pen and paper or open your notes app, and break down your typical day.
Be very precise.
Doing this exercise is important because it helps you identify gaps in your day where creating a workout routine would be possible.
The gym isn’t necessary.
Going to your local park, public high school or lakefront, etc is great to simply start jogging.
2) Not having the right attire
As odd as it may sound, a lot of people avoid working out or going to the gym because they feel like they don’t have the right attire.
When it comes to gymwear, many individuals think that they have to buy clothing from the popular brands like Gymshark, Under Armour or Adidas, when in reality, wearing a simple t-shirt and sweatpants will more than do the job.
Believe it or not, I don’t think the fashion police spend a lot of time at the gym, so you don’t have much to worry about.
Plus once you start to get into the groove of things, you can always start building up your workout wardrobe.
The solution
Like I previously mentioned, heading to your local Walmart, goodwill or discount store can save you tons of money when it comes to getting gym attire. You could probably get 5 t-shirts and sweatpants for $40-50.
Don’t let what you wear hold you back.
3) Trying to get everything perfect
Look, I know you wanna get your diet in 100% order and have your workout routine 100% planned out, plus get meal plans together, but the reality is: you need to start.
Getting sidetracked by so many things will cause you to freeze up and not do anything at all. Some of you are worried about problems you don’t even have yet.
Things like meal prepping, best rep ranges, nutrition practices, etc should be learned along the journey.
Even the most fit people don’t have everything in order the way it may seem. Like for myself, I still struggle with my diet sometimes, especially sugar.
The solution
Focus on the problem in front of you.
Haven’t been in the gym yet? Go.
Haven’t created a routine? Pick a focus area (ex: legs) and google workouts for it.
Trying to diet? Learn about caloric surplus and deficit.
So on and so forth.
Stop trying to be perfect. Nobody is.
In closing
If you made it this far, thanks for reading. Please share it with someone who you think it might help.
Want more content from me, follow me on Twitter, Instagram and subscribe to my YouTube channel.
