May is National Physical Fitness & Sports Month, so it’s a good time to discuss the reasons why your employees don’t “get off the couch, and get active!” Offer them practical tips to overcome those excuses.
Undoubtedly, your employees know they should be exercising more. They’ve been hearing this since they were children competing for the President’s Physical Fitness Award that physical activity is good for them. But do they claim easier said than done? Do they promise to have the best of intentions but then not follow up? Unfortunately, intentions don’t burn calories! So what exactly are your employees’ excuses for not exercising?
Here are five common barriers to exercising—along with possible solutions from the Weight-control Information Network (WIN), an information service of the National Institutes of Health:
1. I don’t have time.
* Give exercise the same priority you give brushing your teeth or taking a shower. You do those things to stay healthy, and exercise is just as important!
* Schedule active chores every day, such as vacuuming, raking, or washing the car.
* Make family time active with walks, ball games, bike rides, etc.
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2. I’m too tired at the end of the day.
* Incorporate exercise into your day. Take the stairs. Park at the far end of lots when running errands.
* Find another time to exercise, such as before work or at lunch time.
3. It’s boring.
* Find activities you like. You’re not obligated to use a treadmill—or to stay inside. Try a new sport. Get out in the fresh air.
* Make it social. Plan activities with friends or an exercise buddy.
4. It’s expensive.
* Choose free exercise. Gardening, walking, dancing, shooting hoops, tossing a Frisbee in the park—these are all free and burn calories.
* Look for discounts. Perhaps your community gym is cheaper than the national chains. Maybe your workplace offers discounted memberships.
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5. No one I know exercises.
* Lead by example. Get out there faithfully, and inspire your loved ones to get active, too!
Why It Matters
- According to WIN, if you’re a male over the age of 40, a female over the age of 50, or have health conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, or obesity, consult with your health professional before beginning an ambitious exercise program.
- Meanwhile, you can start walking today.
- Even 10 minutes of physical activity a day can improve overall health.