"I just don't have time today" I thought. As I bit into that second donut - full of sugar and fat. My pants were starting to feel a bit tight. OK, I admit it - they fit fine last year. They've been a little tight for a few months now. "Maybe they are shrinking" I first thought.
Then I looked in the mirror! Why do we convince ourselves it is OK to let exercise wait. Why do I tell myself that 2nd donut won't really hurt anything - for the fifth day in a row? It's so easy to hide behind mistaken beliefs or myths. Some common myths and the realities behind them:
Myth 1. Exercising makes you tired.
As they become more physically fit, most people feel physical activity gives them even more energy than before. Regular, moderate-to-brisk exercise can also help you reduce fatigue and manage stress.
Myth 2. Exercising takes too much time.
It only takes a few minutes a day to become more physically active. To condition your heart and lungs, regular exercise does not have to take more than about 30 to 60 minutes, three or four times a week. If you don't have 30 minutes in your schedule for an exercise break, try to find two 15-minute periods or even three 10-minute periods. Once you discover how much you enjoy these exercise breaks, you may want to make them a habit! Then physical activity becomes a natural part of your life.
Myth 3. All exercises give you the same benefits.
All physical activities can give you enjoyment. Low-intensity activities - if performed daily - also can have some long-term health benefits and lower your risk of heart disease. But only regular, brisk and sustained exercises such as brisk walking, jogging or swimming improve the efficiency of your heart and lungs and burn off substantial extra calories. Other activities may give you other benefits such as increased flexibility or muscle strength, depending on the type of activity.
Myth 4. The older you are, the less exercise you need.
We tend to become less active with age, and therefore need to make sure we are getting enough physical activity. In general, middle-aged and older people benefit from regular physical activity just as young people do. Age need not be a limitation. In fact, regular physical activity in older persons increases their capacity to perform activities of daily living. What is important, no matter what your age, is tailoring the activity program to your own fitness level.
Myth 5. You have to be athletic to exercise.
Most physical activities do not require any special athletic skills. In fact, many people who found school sports difficult have discovered that these other activities are easy to do and enjoy. A perfect example is walking - an activity that requires no special talent, athletic ability or equipment.
Well, I hope you'll be smarter than me. Don't give in to these easy-to-believe myths. Start today - just do one thing that you know is healthy for you! Take a walk after school or work. A nice fast-paced walk. If you start making healthy choices now - you'll soon begin to look better and feel better! Exercise, building muscles and eating healthy all lead to better, improved self confidence.
Luckily, we have within easy reach - many natural and healthy ways to lose weight fast. Start today. Make today the beginning of a new chapter in your life. A healthier lifestyle. Start exercising. building muscles, and getting in shape fast. You'll see a difference in how you feel about yourself. You'll a more energy. An improved outlook on life. Start today!
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