When it comes to exercise, a lot of people have good intentions. But sometimes those intentions get pushed behind other commitments. Sound familiar? I know I'm guilty of procrastinating on exercise from time to time. On an Oprah.com survey, exercise and diet were two activities people frequently reported putting off until later. If you're guilty of it too, try these three ways to stop procrastinating:
* Outsmart yourself. If, after getting home from work, you frequently skip your exercise session because of bills, household chores, or other commitments, try stopping at the gym on the way home. Or change into workout clothes before you leave the office and go for a walk or run as soon as you get home (don't even get the mail or go in the house first).
* Build on your success. If you're good at certain things -- such as handling the demands of your job -- try to find ways to make exercise as important. For example, if you place a high priority on work because others are counting on you to get your job done, consider joining a team sport. Your teammates will count on you to be at practices and games -- it's a lot harder to put off exercise when others are waiting for you.
* Take a good look at yourself. Put a photo of yourself when you were looking and feeling great on your fridge or desktop and take a frequent look in the mirror. It's not narcissism, it's a reality check. Keeping tabs on yourself will make you want to be active and get (or keep) your body in peak condition.
