No More Exercise Excuses

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4. I can’t stay motivated.
Solution: Create momentum; it’s the key to maintaining motivation, Core says. He suggests keeping an exercise log and checking off your progress. “When you see multiple boxes checked in a row, that gives you some real motivation, some real momentum,” he says.

Another way to stay motivated is to grab an exercise buddy. Core tells his clients to find workout partners who are mean. “That way they can help push each other along,” he says. If an exercise buddy isn’t an option, try channeling your motivation from within. Take a deep breath and think about what made you begin an exercise routine in the first place. Exhale and let those factors motivate you. Try making a list of reasons to exercise. Keep the list handy, so you can look at it whenever your motivation is low.

5. I’m too tired.
Solution: See your doctor if you’re consistently exhausted to rule out a hidden problem. Otherwise, realize that when you first start an exercise routine, you may feel a bit tired as your body faces a new challenge. You’ll get a stamina boost if you stick with it. “With consistent effort, there’s always an increase in energy level,” Ross says.

If you’re tempted to skip exercising because you’re fatigued at the end of the day, Ross suggests using the 10-minute rule: “After 10 minutes of exercise, if you don’t feel better and don’t feel like continuing, it’s best to just stop and take the night off.” However, if this happens often, you may want to try exercising at another time of day.

6. I have a sore knee.
Solution: Check with your doctor and/or a physical therapist. If the diagnosis is an ailing knee or you have other aches and pains, don’t abandon exercise completely. Instead, ask what you can do. You still may be able to lift light weights, swim, or do other light workouts.

The point is not to let an injury melt your resolve to live a healthy lifestyle.

7. I have small children.
Solution: If you have tiny tots, squeeze in short bouts of exercise throughout your day, sign up for a parent-and-child exercise program, or pop in an exercise video. “It’s doubly important for you to be physically active because children are going to imitate what they see,” Price says.

Let older kids take the lead and spend time with them tossing a Frisbee, racing through the backyard in a game of tag, or exploring nature on a hike. While your kids are at soccer practice, take a few laps around the field.

“Find ways that you can be physically active,” Price says. “Show your kids that yes, this is what grown-ups do, and we love it.”