Sometimes, the absolute last thing I feel like doing is exercise. Especially when I have just got in from a long day at work, sat down and had a cup of tea (or glass of wine). The thought of getting my sports bra on and skipping, using a kettle bell or even going for a walk is really the last thing I want to do.
At times we really do have to force ourselves to exercise, no matter how awful it may seem.
So, a little bit of motivation!
Firstly, just tell yourself you will do 5 minutes. 5 minutes, that's all. Generally once you get going you will be able to do a bit longer.and even if you don't, 5 minutes is much better than nothing!
Skip during the adverts of Coronation Street.and you will probably carry on skipping through the second half too.
Do just the warm up on an exercise DVD, the likelihood is you will complete the whole workout.
Do 15 squats, 15 sit-ups and 15 push-ups, once your blood is pumping and your muscles are working you will want to do another 3 sets.
When I was researching all the reasons why we should exercise, I realised the list could go on for pages and pages, so here is a list of some of the benefits of exercise print out the list and stick it some where. When you really lack motivation, read through a few, then just do something, even for just 5 minutes.
Exercise.
Increases our strength and muscle mass, meaning we burn more calories, even while sleeping. (That in itself is reason enough for me!)
Increases our metabolism, while we are exercising, but also for several hours afterwards.
May improve our immune systems
Improves muscle strength and flexibility can remedy lower back pain.
Relieves symptoms of depression.
Makes us feel more energetic
Makes us look more attractive. Think of someone who is a size 12 but fit and toned, then someone who is a size 8 but skinny and saggy I know what I'd rather be!!
Can treat and prevent constipation
Keeps our skin clear
Makes our brains work more efficiently, meaning better learning and concentration
Means we can eat more of the food we like without guilt!
Increases confidence
Helps relieve many of the common discomforts of pregnancy (backache, heartburn, constipation, etc.).
Improves posture
Helps to alleviate certain menstrual symptoms (cramps, PMS etc).
Improves your balance and coordination.
Provides protection against injury.
Helps to relieve and prevent migraines.
Helps decrease your appetite (a short-term effect only).
Helps to increase your overall health awareness.
Phew, well there we have it, makes you want to get started doesn't it? And I can't really think of one reason not to exercise.so however you are feeling, just do SOMETHING, even for 5 minutes, walk around the block, get a hula hoop out, play with the kids, bounce on a mini trampoline, have energetic sex!!
As long as your heart rate increases and you get a little sweaty and out of breath it is doing you good.
Your quick, healthy dinner.
Turn the oven onto 200 degrees.
Pour a glass of wine (after that exercise you deserve it!)
Chop a chicken breast into bite size pieces and put on a baking tray.
Add some mushrooms (chopped if the are large), cherry tomatoes, and an onion chopped into chunks.
Pour over a glug of olive oil, add some pepper and give the tray a shake.
Bake for about 15 minutes.
During these 15 minutes you could get on a mini trampoline, skip or dance around to your favourite CD.
Add a large tablespoon of an extra light cream cheese with chives to the baking tray, mix around and pop back in the oven for another minute or 2.
Done! You can have this on its own or with potatoes (it's nice with mash), pasta or rice (wholemeal please).
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