In my late 20's I joined my first health club. It was the beginning of the aerobics craze, and I faithfully went to class several times a week. Later, I added a weight lifting regimen, and for the next two decades of my life, exercise became a part of my daily ritual. I can honestly say that I don't think I ever missed more than a week of working out. For me, my trips to the gym have been a way to stay physically and emotionally fit. Then, a couple of years ago, when I established my private practice, my work days extended late into the night. Exhausted from the challenges of running a new business, driving around town much of the day, and working long hours, I stopped going to the gym. Slowly, and gradually, I noticed the loss of muscle mass in my arms and legs, the emergence of a few more aches and pains, and loss of motivation to exercise. I knew I needed to get back to the gym, but how could I possibly schedule time to go work out, when I was already so busy and tired? Where would I find the energy and motivation?
Sound familiar? Often, when introducing a therapy regimen to my patients that includes daily exercise, I hear them complain of "no time," "no energy," or "no motivation." Intellectually, they may understand the need for what I am suggesting, but for many, now in their 70's or even 80's, committing to an intense therapy program or home exercise program may seem overwhelming and unappealing, despite the proposed benefit.
So, how do any of us begin a program of therapy or exercise when we seemingly lack time, energy or motivation? In the words of Nike, we:
JUST DO IT!!
That's right. We begin by doing something, ANYTHING, that starts us on the path. Some days, especially when we're tired, we still show up. Whether we practice for 5 minutes or 50 minutes. A patient said to me this week: "if I get in to the habit, I'll be ok." Establishing the habit seemes to be the key for all of us. So, I have committed to ride my bike to the gym at least 3 days a week for the next 60 days, and I invite you to join me with your own commitment to perform the exercises prescribed by your therapist, attend a community based program or use a home program of exercise. Tell a friend or two who will hold you accountable. I know that it will take me awhile to get back to being as fit as I was two years ago, and maybe I will never quite get there, but knowing that I am doing something to honor my commitment already makes me feel better.
Oh, and by the way...I notice I seem to be sleeping better, and for the first time in about 6 months, that chronic pain in my neck has seems to have gone away. I'd love to hear about your progress.
Sound familiar? Often, when introducing a therapy regimen to my patients that includes daily exercise, I hear them complain of "no time," "no energy," or "no motivation." Intellectually, they may understand the need for what I am suggesting, but for many, now in their 70's or even 80's, committing to an intense therapy program or home exercise program may seem overwhelming and unappealing, despite the proposed benefit.
So, how do any of us begin a program of therapy or exercise when we seemingly lack time, energy or motivation? In the words of Nike, we:
JUST DO IT!!
That's right. We begin by doing something, ANYTHING, that starts us on the path. Some days, especially when we're tired, we still show up. Whether we practice for 5 minutes or 50 minutes. A patient said to me this week: "if I get in to the habit, I'll be ok." Establishing the habit seemes to be the key for all of us. So, I have committed to ride my bike to the gym at least 3 days a week for the next 60 days, and I invite you to join me with your own commitment to perform the exercises prescribed by your therapist, attend a community based program or use a home program of exercise. Tell a friend or two who will hold you accountable. I know that it will take me awhile to get back to being as fit as I was two years ago, and maybe I will never quite get there, but knowing that I am doing something to honor my commitment already makes me feel better.
Oh, and by the way...I notice I seem to be sleeping better, and for the first time in about 6 months, that chronic pain in my neck has seems to have gone away. I'd love to hear about your progress.
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