Don't Skip the Gym Because You're Uncomfortable

By Donna Stark

Change can be hard. The thought of it can sometimes be scary enough to keep you sitting on the couch at home, motionless and full of excuses. Truthfully, you know what should be done, but isn’t it so easy to talk yourself out of doing what is needed when faced with the thought of putting yourself in an uncomfortable position? So whether you are brand new to the gym scene or simply starting out on a different fitness routine, don’t give in to the excuses! If your goal is to finally get the body you’ve always wanted, you need to shake off that fear and get yourself into the gym.

Exercise for Optimal Health

One of the most important factors to optimal health is to exercise regularly, but if you haven’t been active for a while, you may be feeling a little out of sorts. Here are some suggestions to help you feel more comfortable in the gym.

• Develop a realistic fitness plan - It’s important to create a realistic plan with goals that you are going to be able to reach, so be practical with your schedule and your own fitness level, especially if exercise is new to you. Avoid any setbacks by taking it slow and steady.
• Bring a friend - Everything is better with a friend and exercising with a partner will hold you accountable and make the gym much more approachable. Plus, having a friend join you on this journey will give you someone to share information with, such as health tips, recipes, and workout advice.
• Modify and rest if you have to - A challenging fitness routine isn’t meant to be easy, but it shouldn’t be impossible either. Don’t be afraid to modify your workout if you aren’t able to complete it as it was designed. If you can’t make that four-mile run, then walk. If you have to alter your position to maintain the proper form, then go ahead and do so. Just be careful not to injure your body by pushing yourself to do something that you just aren’t ready to do.
• Ask a professional - Personal trainers can be a great resource at the gym. Not sure how to use a piece of equipment or if you are using the correct form? Ask. Or sign up for regular training sessions with one. It doesn’t have to be a huge commitment and you can stop once you get all of the basics down.

Fear is a Liar

You have too many goals to crush to let a little fear stand in your way. So stop the excuses, get off of the couch and get yourself into a routine. Being uncomfortable is the great inhibitor of life … don’t fall into its grasp!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Denver, Colo.