2.9 minute read

A Friendly Guide to Overcoming Barriers and Building a Lasting Fitness Routine

Why Do We Wait to Start Exercising?

Let’s be honest—most of us have promised ourselves that we’ll start working out “tomorrow,” only to watch that day come and go. If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in this cycle, you’re not alone. The truth is, taking the first step toward exercise is often the hardest part. But what causes us to delay? Let’s explore the common obstacles that keep us from making fitness a priority and discover simple ways to break through.

Common Roadblocks: Mental and Physical Barriers

• Fear of Not Knowing Where to Start: Many feel overwhelmed by all the fitness options available. Should you do yoga, lift weights, or go for a run? The choices can be paralyzing.
• Lack of Time: Busy schedules make it easy to push exercise down the priority list.
• Perfectionism: Waiting for the “perfect” time, gym, or gear often leads to endless delays.
• Low Motivation: It’s tough to feel excited about something that feels like hard work, especially when the results aren’t immediate.
• Physical Discomfort: Concerns about soreness, fatigue, or even injury can make starting out seem intimidating.

These barriers are real, but they’re not impossible to overcome. Understanding them is the first step toward breaking free.

Call to Action

• Repeat this statement out loud 3 times – “I don’t wait, I start now”. 
• Find a mirror, look yourself in the eye, and say it with attitude and conviction.  Verbal affirmations are powerful and used by world class athletes.  

Overcoming Barriers: Practical Strategies and Mindset Shifts

• Start Small: Don’t aim for marathon training on day one. Begin with a 10-minute walk or simple stretches. The goal is progress, not perfection.
• Set Realistic Goals: Instead of vague promises, commit to specific, achievable actions like “I’ll move with purpose for 15 minutes this week 4 times.”
• Shift Your Mindset: Think of exercise as self-care, not punishment. Focus on how moving makes you feel rather than how you look.
• Remove Obstacles: Lay out workout clothes the night before, or keep your exercise gear visible. Make it as easy as possible to get started.
• Find Your Why: Whether it’s wanting more energy, better sleep, or a mood boost, connect with the deeper reasons you want to move.

Call to Action

• Start with just one – one body weight squat, one leg rear lunge, one pushup (assisted, if necessary), one crunch, etc.  You get the picture.  Look at it this way, one is 100% better than zero.
• Try this light weight and comfortable dumbbell set.  These are great for toning arms, shoulders, and more.  They are universal!  If you already have some dumbbells, try these resistance bands.  They provide a great alternative for your muscles and joints.     

Motivation Tips: How to Get Started and Stay Inspired

• Buddy Up: Exercising with a friend makes it more fun and keeps you accountable.
• Track Progress: Celebrate small wins—every extra step, push-up, or stretch counts!
• Mix It Up: Try different activities to keep things interesting. Dance, hike, swim, or simply play outside.
• Reward Yourself: Treat yourself after workouts—a smoothie, a relaxing bath, or your favorite movie.
• Be Kind to Yourself: Missed a day? That’s okay. What matters is getting back up and moving again.

Call to Action

• Tell someone what you just accomplished.  No need to lay out the detail of your workout.  Just letting someone know that you just finished a workout is extremely gratifying.
• After your workout, try my all-time favorite yoga pose – Savasana (this is where you just lay still on your back, lol.  This is most comfortable while using a yoga mat.  Another great and beneficial idea is to utilize a foam roller to hit those feel good, deep tissue areas.

Building a Sustainable Routine: Steps for Long-Term Success

1. Schedule Your Workouts: Add exercise to your daily calendar like any important appointment.
2. Set Reminders: Use phone alerts or sticky notes to prompt yourself to move.
3. Listen to Your Body: Adjust intensity and rest as needed; consistency matters more than going all out.
4. Celebrate Milestones: Recognize when you’ve formed a habit, hit a goal, or simply showed up.
5. Keep Learning: As your confidence grows, explore new workouts and keep challenging yourself.
6. Last, but definitely not least, stay hydrated throughout the day, every day, with an Owala Freesip Sway cup.

Building a routine is about creating habits that fit your lifestyle, not forcing yourself into someone else’s schedule.

Final Encouragement: Take That First Step!

Remember, the hardest part of starting an exercise journey is just that—starting. You don’t need fancy gear, a gym membership, or a perfect plan. All you need is the decision to move, no matter how small the step. Every bit of effort adds up, and you’re capable of more than you think.

So stop waiting for the “right time.” Your health and happiness deserve your attention today! Let’s lace up those sneakers, stretch out, and make movement a joyful part of everyday life. You’ve got this!

Scream it from the rooftops; “I don’t wait, I start now!”

Friendly Reminder:
This blog post is here to inspire and encourage you to get moving and feel great, but it’s not medical advice. Everyone’s body is different, so it’s always a good idea to check in with your doctor or a healthcare professional before starting any new workout routine—especially if you have any health conditions or concerns. Listen to your body, take it at your own pace, and do what feels right for you. Stay safe and have fun!