Overcoming Obstacles to Exercising
- Wise Psychic Counsellor
- Aug 16
- 3 min read
How to Start Exercising and Stick to It
Making exercise an enjoyable part of your everyday life may be easier than you think. These tips can show you how.
Overcoming Obstacles to Exercising
If you’re having trouble beginning an exercise plan or following through, you’re not alone. Many of us struggle to get out of the sedentary rut, despite our best intentions.
You already know there are many great reasons to exercise — from improving energy, mood, sleep, and health to reducing anxiety, stress, and depression. And detailed exercise instructions and workout plans are just a click away. But if knowing how and why to exercise was enough, we’d all be in shape. Making exercise a habit takes more — you need the right mindset and a smart approach.
While practical concerns like a busy schedule or poor health can make exercise more challenging, for most of us, the biggest barriers are mental. Maybe it’s a lack of self-confidence that keeps you from taking positive steps, your motivation quickly flames out, or you get easily discouraged and give up. We’ve all been there.
Whatever your age or fitness level — even if you’ve never exercised a day in your life — there are steps you can take to make exercise less intimidating and more enjoyable.
Mindset Matters
Ditch the all-or-nothing attitude: You don’t have to spend hours in a gym or force yourself into activities you hate. A little exercise is better than nothing. Even modest physical activity can have a profound effect on your mental and emotional health.
Be kind to yourself: Research shows that self-compassion increases the likelihood of success. Don’t beat yourself up about your body, current fitness level, or perceived lack of willpower. Instead, view past mistakes as opportunities to learn and grow.
Check your expectations: You didn’t get out of shape overnight, and you won’t instantly transform your body. Focus on consistency over results. Mood and energy improvements may happen quickly; physical changes will follow in time.
Busting the Biggest Exercise Excuses
Excuse 1: “I hate exercising.”Solution: Find activities you enjoy — dancing, walking, biking with friends, or even walking through a scenic park. Pair movement with something enjoyable, like listening to music.
Excuse 2: “I’m too busy.”Solution: Short bursts of activity (5, 10, or 15 minutes) are effective. Prioritise movement, even in small doses, and use weekends for longer sessions if weekdays are packed.
Excuse 3: “I’m too tired.”Solution: Exercise boosts energy in the long run. Regular activity will make you feel more energized, refreshed, and alert.
Excuse 4: “I’m too fat, too old, or not healthy enough.”Solution: It’s never too late to start. Most health or weight problems don’t rule out exercise. Consult your doctor for a safe routine.
Excuse 5: “Exercise is too difficult or painful.”Solution: Exercise shouldn’t hurt. Build fitness gradually with walking, swimming, golf, gardening, or household activities.
Excuse 6: “I’m not athletic.”Solution: You don’t need to be sporty to improve fitness. Focus on enjoyable, easy ways to stay active.
How Much Exercise Do You Need?
Something is always better than nothing. Current recommendations for most adults: 150 minutes of moderate activity per week. This can be split into:
30 minutes, 5 times a week
Two 15-minute sessions or three 10-minute sessions
How Hard Do I Need to Exercise?
Low-intensity: You can talk or sing in full sentences.
Moderate-intensity: You can talk, but not sing.
Vigorous-intensity: You are too breathless to speak in full sentences.
Moderate intensity is sufficient for most people. You should feel warmer but not overheat or sweat excessively.
Getting Started Safely
Health issues: Consult your doctor if you have health concerns (heart disease, asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure, mobility issues).
Warm-up: Use dynamic stretches and slow versions of your workout movements.
Cool-down: Allow heart rate to return to normal with light movement or gentle stretching.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water, especially during prolonged or hot exercise.
Listen to your body: Stop if you feel pain or discomfort. Resume gently once you feel better.
✨ Booking Prompt
Struggling to start exercising or stay consistent? Counselling can help uncover mental barriers, develop motivation, and create a personalised fitness plan that fits your life. Book your session today.
Wise Psychic Counselling — About
Wise Psychic Counselling offers compassionate and insightful guidance to support your mental and emotional well-being. Our experienced team combines psychological expertise with intuitive wisdom to provide tailored counselling that helps you navigate life’s challenges, enhance personal growth, and find inner peace. Whether you’re seeking clarity, support, or a deeper understanding of yourself, we’re here to help you achieve a balanced and fulfilling life.
Ready to take the next step? Book a session with our expert counsellors today to explore personalised support and guidance tailored to your needs.
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