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If you’d rather scrub the bottom of your kitchen trash can than
exercise, you’re not alone. For millions of people, doing things like
jogging, lifting weights, or taking a workout class has no appeal at
all. So how do fitness experts get exercise-haters to break a sweat? It
comes down to a simple mind trick. “Put aside the concept of exercise as
a deliberate, regimented activity that takes place in a gym and
requires special clothes and focus on moving more in ways that are
either fun or almost effortless,” says Emily McCavanagh, AFAA, owner of
Fitness Inspired Training in Boston. Here, she shares some of her
favorite strategies for inspiring anyone to get moving and learn to
like, or even love, being active.
1. Wear Clothes With Give
On days when you don’t have to dress for work, put on sneakers and
sweats or yoga pants first thing in the morning. This simple habit can
make a huge difference in how often you move. (Ditto for a sports bra,
or at least a bra that provides decent support.) Anytime you have an
opportunity to bend, stretch, or jump, you might actually do it—rather
than think about how you might do it if only you weren’t wearing snug
jeans and flimsy sandals.
2. Try Out Your Kid’s Toys
Admit it, you’ve recently eyeballed a trampoline, slide, or scooter
and considered giving it a whirl. Whether you’re at the playground or
in your backyard, follow through on the urge to play when it hits you.
Let’s say you were to pick up a jump rope and hop for 10 minutes (not
necessarily in a row). You would end up burning as many calories as if
you ran three miles! But never mind that, just jump as long as it feels
fun.
