Stop avoiding exercise!
Sympatico MSN

Here are some of the most common reasons for avoiding exercise, plus ways to sneak it into your day. Now there's no excuse for not getting your 30 minutes of fitness!

You’re intimidated

For some, stepping foot in a gym is like stepping off a plane in a foreign country. Although the variety of machines and sea of buff bodies can be unnerving at first, there are ways to overcome this gym-phobia. Most facilities are more than happy to provide a tour, so consider spending time with a staff member who can explain what each machine does, and how it will help you. Avoiding the gym at peak hours can also make the trip less intimidating, since there will not be as many people sharing and waiting for machines. (credit:Getty Images )

You’re in pain

Many people avoid exercise because they are experiencing constant joint pain, and fear they may make their condition worse. If you suffer from knee, back, or hip pain, there are alternative workout routines which can provide the physical activity you need, while ensuring you do not exceed your limitations. Water aerobics are a favourite among many who are unable to endure the pounding pressure of a treadmill at the gym or pavement outdoors. (credit: Getty Images )

Your can’t afford it

Firstly, not all gym memberships will cost you an arm and a leg. Shop around before committing to an annual membership to ensure you have the best deal available. Community centres are a great low-budget alternative, and often have the same equipment, but charge a much lower rate. Starting a home gym can be another way to save some cash, since your whole household can use the same equipment. Still seem too expensive? Creating outdoor exercise routines are the cheapest way to get fit, and sometimes end up being the most fun too. (credit: Getty Images )

You just don’t like it

One of the simplest, yet most common reasons for avoiding physical activity – you just don’t like it. Many people would much rather sit in front of the television catching up on their favourite shows, go out for dinner with friends, or sleep an extra hour. If this sounds like you, try joining a yoga class or baseball team. Group oriented fitness is a great way to motivate yourself, since you have the company of others. Plus, it's a perfect way to make new friends. (credit: Getty Images )

You don’t have the time

A trainer’s favourite excuse, “I just don’t have enough time!” We've all had days where it feels like there isn't a spare minute to catch our breath. However, this is no excuse to avoid exercise. You have enough time to book and attend a 30 minute meeting, so why not make the same commitment to your health? If find you're too tired by the end of the day, try slipping in a quick power walk during the lunch hour, or even taking the stairs over the elevator. (credit: Getty Images )

You don’t see anyone else doing it

Not having friends, family or a partner to exercise with can make it a challenge to get motivated. Having someone to workout with will make the time you spend at the gym go by faster, as well as improve the quality of your workout. Having someone you are in contact with, who exercises on a regular basis, will increase the chances of you picking up their positive habit. Women especially benefit from seeing their peers exercise, since they want to get fit as well. (credit: Getty Images )

It's simple enough, good health or not? Sure it takes a little discipline but imagine if we made a little fun of it? We could make some new friends and then there are those new "looks" by those passing by. Mmm, where are those old sweats?