Exercise is Not a Four Letter Word

It's obvious that the word 'exercise' has more than four letters, but many of us will agree it sounds like a four-letter word.

Indeed, many people feel so negatively about exercise, experts often advise using the term 'physical activity' instead.

No matter what you call it, moving your body is critical to feeling and staying well. And to achieve and maintain healthy weights, it's key. The sticking point generally comes when we try to do it. (Regardless what Nike says, there's a bit more to it sometimes than just doing it.)

So here's Green Mountain's take on how to keep going when you just don't want to do it.

• Focus on feeling good. That may mean rethinking your goals. If they are to lose weight above all else, you might find yourself facing some serious motivational challenges as you pass through the normal peaks and valleys of everyday energy. To find more motivation, refocus your goals to feeling great, having energy to do the things you want, and staying healthy. You'll likely find your weight moving to a healthier place, too. Read about Green Mountain's top ten reasons to exercise.
• Choose to move in ways you enjoy. It's really, really hard to do something we don't like doing. So when it comes to exercise, find things that are fun! Yes, they do exist. This may mean you need to change your definition of exercise. Or call it physical activity instead. See our list of Top Ten Reasons to Exercise.
• Forget doing it perfectly - just move. We're talking about those recommendations that say we need to get so many minutes a day at such and such intensity in order to get the full benefit. It's certainly good to have a goal, but remember: something is better than nothing. If you're squeezed for time, do something in the time you have. Learn tips by reading our Top Ten Reasons To Exercise.