The Nice Advice by Leah Albert

Dear Leah,

I’ve been trying to get back in shape again, but I just don’t feel motivated. I don’t like to run, and going to classes just isn’t my thing. I know it would be good for me, I just don’t know how to start.

— Unmotivated in Minnesota

 

Dear Unmotivated,

Being a Minnesotan is hard at times, especially with the lack of sunshine and nice weather to motivate us to get outside and get active. Sometimes I think people in California have it so easy —w hich is why they can wear less clothing in the springtime than most of us dare.

What Californians have that we don’t have isn’t more sunshine or warmth necessarily — they have a better built environment that encourages regular physical activity.

Though we live in Minnesota, where it’s cold and icy for half the year, we have as many opportunities to get as active as the Californians — it all depends on our ability to get creative.

The challenge for you isn’t to start some extensive exercise regime, but to take things slowly. The greatest benefit for physical well-being is small changes to your daily routine. This may sound too simple, but choosing to take the stairs or parking your car farther away from your destination really does make a difference in daily activity.

The most effective way to get in shape is to make it a mindless activity. Nike’s slogan, “Just do it” is something we all need to embrace. Do what is fun for you! Having fun helps to ensure you will remain active — this might mean that you need to try a lot of different approaches throughout your life.

Throughout my life, I have been more focused on various activities such as swimming, Tae Kwon Do, running, yoga, kick-boxing, biking, etc. One activity won’t necessarily continue its appeal.

Your body also has different needs throughout the course of your life so it’s important to pay attention to how any activity makes you feel. Obviously if you haven’t had much physical activity for a while, you will feel some soreness or discomfort — but it should go away after you continue your efforts and grow stronger.

Though you don’t like to attend classes, I also recommend you find a buddy who can help keep you motivated. We are more successful when we set plans in motion and talk to others about our goals — and also celebrate our accomplishments!

Try not to judge yourself as you begin this journey — making any significant change in our life or our daily habits does take time and you won’t necessarily achieve every goal you set for yourself right away. Remember doing something is better than doing nothing. And, as I said before, have fun!

 

Leah Albert is a fictitious character. She likes wine and writing. Don’t ask her to be a matchmaker. Do send your questions to Leah at theniceadviceleahalbert@gmail.com.