You can still EXERCISE without hating it.
Last week I talked about why you hate going to the gym. Focusing on weight loss, turns out doesn't actually help you go to the gym.
Focusing on the process instead of the end goal can help a lot.
"Being healthy" or "just feeling like you can walk a mile without getting winded," is still an end goal.
Which is why "lifestyle change" doesn't necessarily work either.
Here are some tips:
1. Think about what you ACTUALLY ENJOY doing.
Go ahead make a list of 20 things you like doing. It can include Netflix. Or crafts. I'll wait.
*Pro-tip: Nobody is reading this list except for you so you don't have to write things that you think I want to see.
2. Does anything on the list include some form of movement?
Movement doesn't have to be running, hiking, or swimming. Is it stretching? Is it standing? Is it having sex?
Boom. You like exercise! You're welcome.
3. Is there anything you like about "exercise?"
Making the switch from going to crossfit 4x/wk to just gardening and going for walks can be scary.
Especially since we feel like we SHOULD exercise.
So, let's say you're one of those people that thinks you're going to literally die if you don't go to the gym.
There's also hope for you. Just because you HAVE to go doesn't mean you can't enjoy it. It doesn't have to be a torturous experience.
Now write down a list of things you like about going to the gym.
Again, I'll wait.
Does it clear your head? Does it change your mood? Do your muscles feel all juicy and awesome? Do you see your friends? Do you get the runner's high? Do you finally get some time to listen to your favorite podcast or Discover Spotify playlist?
For example, I like ellipticals. They are silly and I can usually comfortably watch television while on one.
So, there you go.
Instead of exercise. Have a ball.
