Excuse Busters - Feb 2010

Excuses may only be one-liners, but they can wreak havoc with your commitment to exercise and eating well. Here’s how to overcome some you may use yourself!

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EXCUSE # 1: I’M FAR TOO BUSY TO EXERCISE

Draw up a weekly timetable – you’ll quickly see where you have free time. Most TV programs run for 30 minutes – you could be exercising for that time. How many hours of TV do you really need to watch each week?

EXCUSE # 2: I DON’T HAVE TIME TO PREPARE HEALTHY MEALS

This one is really a cop out. You can have a healthy meal made from a handful of ingredients ready in 10 or 15 minutes, which takes less time than driving to a takeaway shop. There are many prepackaged salads or marinated fresh fish fillets that you can throw onto the barbecue. Alternatively, cook up big batches of healthy stews or soups and freeze portions for later in the week.

EXCUSE # 3: I’VE ALWAYS BEEN BIG, IT’S IN MY GENES

Whilst it’s true that you can’t change your genes, you can still make a remarkable difference to your body shape through healthy eating and exercise.

EXCUSE # 4: I’VE TRIED AND DIDN’T SEE RESULTS – WHY TRY AGAIN?

There’s always a point to trying again. Consult a trainer who will be able to help you establish and achieve your goals. Change the focus from what you can ‘see’ to thinking about the health benefits of exercise. Researchers know that people who lose weight for medical or health reasons have more success in the long term than those who are motivated purely by other factors like appearance.

EXCUSE # 5: I HATE EXERCISE!

Now come on – do you really hate all exercise? A good idea is to try something that involves fun. Try a class, join a Boot Camp. Set up some sessions with a trainer and learn how to vary your workouts or throw in some circuit style training.

EXCUSE # 6: I DON’T HAVE ANY WILLPOWER.

Relying on willpower is like driving with your foot on the brake! Eventually you’ll skid out of control! You need help with an eating plan that takes into account your lifestyle, your favourite foods and the eating habits that work for you. It’s about developing a realistic plan that does not rely on willpower.

EXCUSE # 7: I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT CHOCOLATE AND CHIPS.

You don’t have to. It’s a matter of working out how to eat healthy most of the time and having your treats in moderation.

 Weight Watchers Magazine | Feb 2010