10 Reasons we Stop Exercising

Are you too busy to exercise? If so, you're not alone. Studies show that 60% of American adults don't get the recommended amount of physical activity, and over 25% of adults are not active at all. These statistics reflect the fact that many of us simply don't exercise.

Here are the top 10 reasons we stop.

10. You really hate to exercise.

The key to happiness is doing things you enjoy.

Find activities that match your personality. If you love the outdoors, go hiking or biking. Try things before you decide you don't like them.

People often quit because they schedule too many workouts, work too hard or don't give themselves enough rest days.

Just do whatever you can--you have to start where you are, not where you want to be.

9. You just hate to start because it seems so overwhelming.

Keep cardio light and schedule recovery days. Progress each week by adding a few more minutes to each workout.

8. You can't afford a gym membership

There's no reason you have to join a gym to exercise. You can walk or do yoga anytime, anywhere.

There are also an incredible number of workout videos available for the home exerciser.

7. You're not seeing any changes in your body

Not losing weight fast enough? Once you start exercising, give your body time to react. It could take up to 12 weeks before you start seeing some real changes in your body. In the meantime, try to enjoy the other benefits of exercise such as better moods, better sleep, more energy, and a more positive outlook.

6. You don't know how to exercise.

Try one of the many exercise books, DVD's, or websites that cover everything from cardio to stretching exercises. Hire a personal trainer at a gym if you want to learn more about exercises that will help you lose weight or gain strength

5. You want to exercise but you have to take care of your family.

You don't have to neglect your family to fit in exercise. Join a health club that has a daycare center or do a video while they nap. ^Take them with you on your daily walk. Show your family what it means to be healthy by giving them a good role model.

4. You can't seem to stay motivated to continue working out.

To combat boredom, change your routine every 4 to 6 weeks by trying something new or changing your intensity or time.

Remind yourself every day what your goals are and what you have to do to reach them. Reward yourself often (massages make great gifts).

3. Exercise HURTS!

You don't have to hurt yourself to reap the benefits of exercise. When doing your cardiovascular exercise, make sure you're in your target heart zone. You should be able to carry on a conversation, not huffing and puffing. Yoga should never hurt! If it does, stop immediately.

2. You can't make the commitment to stick to an exercise routine.

Start small - walk or lift weights. Over time, you can increase your workout time and try new things. For now, try making it a daily habit.

1. You don't have time!

Physically inactive people have just as much free time as exercisers, so you can chuck this excuse! Here's how to get past a busy schedule:
Schedule your exercise time. Start with 15 minutes a day. Exercise helps you have more, and the more energy you have, the more you'll get done each day.