Why You Must Keep Exercising Even When You Don't Feel Like It
Getting back to exercise after being sick can be challenging, but it's essential for maintaining health and preventing stiffness. After several days of feeling unwell and avoiding workouts, the consequences become apparent – stiffness throughout the body, pain in the legs, and general discomfort.
This experience highlights an important truth about fitness: “It is very hard to exercise, but very easy to gain weight. Very hard to lose weight, very easy to get weight.” This reality is something many of us face in our fitness journeys.
Taking Control of Your Body
The key to consistent exercise is learning to control your body rather than letting it control you. This means:
- Controlling your cravings and food intake
- Forcing your body to move even when it feels difficult
- Pushing through initial discomfort to achieve your goals
As the body begins to move during exercise, energy levels naturally increase. What starts as a difficult session often transforms into an energizing experience as blood circulation improves and endorphins are released.
Start Where You Are
You don't need to be a fitness professional to benefit from exercise. The important thing is to begin at your current ability level:
“We must not be professional as well. You must not lift 100 pounds. Just start by lifting 10 pounds, 5 pounds. Just little by little, we are going to be fine.”
This gradual approach applies to cardio exercise as well. If you can't maintain a high speed on the treadmill, start with a lower setting. As fitness improves, you can gradually increase intensity.
Consistency Brings Results
The body responds to consistent training. Even a short 20-minute workout can make a significant difference, especially when done regularly. As you build stamina, you'll find yourself able to exercise longer and at higher intensities.
Remember that your health is your greatest asset. When you're in good health, you can pursue your goals and dreams. Regular exercise, even when it's challenging to get started, is one of the most important investments you can make in your overall well-being.
The next time you don't feel like exercising, remind yourself that just a short session can reset your energy levels and improve your mood. Your body and mind will thank you for it.
