Weight Loss: What's Your Excuse?

Break down your barriers with this "No Excuses Chart." Learn how to turn around 7 common excuses that keep people from starting a new program...

I'm too tired, especially after working all day.

• Increasing your activity will result in an overall increase in your energy level.
• If you are too tired after work, try doing an activity in the morning.
• Make a point of increasing your activity throughout the day - take the stairs instead of the elevator.
• Park at the far end of the parking lot.
• Volunteer to shovel the snow, rake the yard, mow the lawn.

I don't have any special skills or activities that I do well.

• All it takes to become active is get outside (or on a treadmill) and walk!
• "Chores" like gardening and even cleaning are activities too!

Exercise is boring.

• Get a family member or friend to do something with you - try different activities to keep yourself interested.
• Build your schedule around your favorites.
• Listen to your favorite music while you exercise.

I'd like to be more active, but there's no one to watch my children.

• Take 'em with you!
• Go for a walk or bike ride in the park, play frisbee or basketball.
• Take the kids swimming, skiing, or sledding.
• Go for a walk or a run with your young child in the stroller.
• There are plenty of fun activities you can enjoy as a family.

I travel frequently for business and find it hard to work out regularly.

• Find hotels that have a swimming pool or health club facility.
• Investigate the surrounding area for good walking paths (many hotels provide maps).
• Keep a jump rope in your briefcase for the hotel room.
• Find exercise programs on television, or bring an exercise video with you.

I'm hungry. I just ate.

• Have a small snack to give you some energy before working out.
• Choose fresh fruits or juices or complex carbohydrates such as a bagel or crackers.
• If you just ate, wait until you feel comfortable before starting an activity.

I can't afford to join a health club or purchase any special equipment or special clothing.

• Not all activities require expensive equipment.
• With no more than a comfortable pair of shoes, you can walk!
• If you don't feel safe walking in your neighborhood or bad weather is a problem, check out your local mall. Many malls open early for walkers, and some sponsor "walking clubs."
• Call your local community center or high school to see if a swimming pool, track, or basketball court is available at no charge to local residents.