Change Your Exercise Vocabulary

Wednesday May 19, 2010

If you struggle to find the motivation to exercise, maybe changing your vocabulary can help. Yes, grammar lessons may seem silly in the throes of exercise disinterest, but there are some common phrases that slip into the mind at such times. Maybe getting rid of them will change how you approach your workouts:

• As Soon As: This phrase makes you feel like you're planning a future workout without actually having to commit to it. We might say, "As soon as my life isn't so crazy, I'll finally start working out." This can morph into any number of as-soon-as-es: As soon as my kids graduate from college or as soon as my bangs grow out or as soon as there is worldwide peace, I'll get to my workout. Getting rid of the excuses can help you focus on what you want, rather than what's standing in your way.
• Should: Anything that starts with, "I really should..." is usually a phrase said out of guilt and often involves tasks that we either need to permanently take off our to-do list ("I really should try bungee jumping" ) or do immediately ("I really should get out and take a walk while the weather is nice.") Replacing the word 'should' with will (or will not) instantly changes your commitment level.
• I'm too (insert feeling here): Many of us use this phrase all the time, especially when it comes to exercise. Too tired, too bored, too stressed, too busy, too confused, too hot...whatever it is, there's always a reason to skip exercise. Taking the 'too' out of it forces you to focus on the problem and do something about it. For example, if you're tired, ask yourself if you're physically tired or mentally tired from a long work day. If it's mental fatigue, exercise can actually increase energy levels, so you can actually solve the problem with the very thing you're trying to avoid. You're welcome.

What's your vocabulary when it comes to exercise? Are negative thinking patterns getting in the way of your workouts? Leave a comment and tell us how, and what, you think about exercise.

SOURCE: http://exercise.about.com/b/2010/05/19/change-your-exercise-vocabulary.htm?nl=1