Logically, I knew exercise would help me. Excuses shouted down logic: my family needed me, my fitness tracker died, I spotted coyotes up the street, it was too hot, it was too cold, the new season of my favorite show just dropped, I needed more sleep, both of my sports bras were in the dirty laundry, I didn’t want to mess up my hair, I was too self-conscious about being out of shape, I had errands to run, I’d just eaten, and on and on! These are actual excuses I used to not exercise. Can you relate?
For years I’d been going to Zumba as often as possible. After two of my three favorite instructors left within weeks of one another, I skipped a class, then another class, and tapered off before I stopped going altogether. I live in a beautiful part of the world that values having well-maintained trails and sidewalks. In addition, I have access to indoor fitness equipment at couple of different facilities close to my home. I’m fortunate and it’s a privilege, but I irregularly took full advantage of these opportunities. Apart from walking to clear my head, I was not exercising.
Over the course of the last year, several people who matter to me have faced serious health challenges. Then, three classmates, who were exactly my age, passed away within weeks of each other. Who can say whether exercise could have extended their lives, but this was a grim reminder about how I’m showing up in the world. Health matters to me.
100% of the information out there tells us that some form of movement is an important component of overall health. First, you need to get the OK from your doctor, of course, as I did, but being sedentary is not healthy. This is not new terrain for me. I had the information but was not taking action. I resolved to do some form of exercise for at least 30 minutes 5 days a week.
With the exception of a college visit trip, I’ve kept my promise to myself for the past six weeks. It’s not easy. I still have the same excuses! But guess what, I show up, and do it anyway! If I can do it so can you. Following is a list of objections you might have to exercise–along with excuse busting solutions for each one.
“Exercise is BORING.”
My rebuttal for this excuse is to try as many different types of exercise as you can. Jogging the same route, alone, day after day, might be the most anticipated thing each day for one lady, but lonely and torturous to the next one. You could invite someone to go with you. You could try new things: Chicago Stepping classes, Zumba, Qi gong, pilates, listening to podcasts or music while walking briskly, group fitness classes, or taking your dog for a jog. All of these count–but you have to do something regularly. Changing it up has kept me interested this long.
“I can’t afford to join a gym.”
Again, the news just gets better and better for you. Gentle, low-impact stretching workouts, cycle workouts, interval training timers–these are just a few of the guided workouts available on YouTube. There is even a sitting workout that airs on public television. You could also take a stroll during a break at work, walk at a mall, use canned goods as weights and do calisthenics.
“I feel self-conscious because I’m _______.”
It takes courage to try something new. Acknowledge your fear and resolve to be present in the space. I’ve been in group classes with people of all ages and sizes. I’ve been the only Black person in many fitness settings. Whether you’re worried because you’re not in shape, differently-abled, out of shape or don’t know anyone, show up and do it anyway.
“I don’t have time.”
This is a reality. After making time for friends and family, working, commuting and daily routines, finding time for exercise may be the toughest excuse to refute. But look for ways to sneak in movement. You could do lunges and squats at your cubicle or in a stairwell, dance really hard for the duration of one of your jams. There may be days when you have no time at all. It happens. Move forward and try your best to never miss two days in a row.
“What am I supposed to do with my hair?”
Black women now have options that mean you might not mess up your hair. There are swim caps designed to cover locs, braids, and yes, even hair as thick as mine! If you wear your hair straightened, you can smooth it with a light coating of oil or butter, then don a satin scarf before you work out. Or wear a baseball cap. It will keep your hair in place, plus you’ll look hip and a little edgy. Speaking of edgy things, try not to go too long between shampoos and remember to be gentle with your hair. If you go to the salon, talk with your stylist about how to care for your hair. Or you could cut it all off and rock a teeny ‘fro for a season.
“I’ll get sweaty.”
There’s no way around this one. From your first time to your thousandth time, there will be sweat! If it helps, think of being sweaty as an important part of being healthy. It’s just for a while, after all. Just wipe down your equipment when you’re done and be grateful. Reward yourself with a bath or shower afterwards and pamper yourself with your favorite soaps and lotions.
“Fitness apparel is not available in my size.”
When you are just getting started you might have to pull on some jeans and a t-shirt. Some retailers only sell clothes that fit thin women. Worry not, because more and more manufacturers and stores sell clothing for women from size XXS to 6X. Also, today the widest range of sizes of bras in the history of bras is available in sports bras. Use a search engine to look for “plus size workout clothes.”
The thing you need to remember is that you must challenge your beliefs and refuse to give in to your excuses about exercise. Exercise can help with weight loss, but that’s not the only reason you need to do it. It can help with your physical fitness, but also elevate your mood and help you have a positive mindset. Do not let what you wear, perspiration, your ‘do, your schedule or fear stop you! Of course, you may have other objections, but the point is to keep an open mind, and MOVE.
Photos by: AllGo, Brenda Lai, Bruce Mars