August 11, 2010......Wednesday

"Stop failure before it starts"
Julie Isphording, former Olympian

Some of us need to convince ourselves that there is enough time in the day to exercise, we could be on track to a great fitness program. For others, we get started but quickly lose momentum and give up. So I found 14 tips for starting and sticking with it. I thought maybe we all could find some of these tips to be helpful.

1. Throw away the bathing suit you wore in high school...and the memory too. Its' normal to have a mental image of yourself when you last exercised like a fiend. But, if that image is from high school you could be in big trouble. Even if it's from last year, forget it. Remember as little as possible of what you used to look like. Starting today make new memories.

2. Prepare. We already know you don't have the time, so write it down like an appointment every day. You wouldn't cancel an appointment, why would you cancel on yourself? Aren't we important too?

3. Start Slowly. Do much less than what you're capable of. Take a 20-minute walk if you're returning to exercise. You might feel like it's not enough, but it's a good start.

4. Get the family involved. Run (not in this weather) while the kids ride their bikes. Go to the local track or indoor track where it is air conditioned, take your spouse alone, make it a date thing, then celebrate with a little something special after your activity.

5. Where are your friends? Four words, four reasons--motivation, inspiration, determination, conversation. Surround yourself with friends who think positive and have a zest for life.

6. Put pain in perspective. When the going gets tough, remember that you have survived 600 carpools, 540 loads of laundry (maybe just this month), 41 extra activities for your kids, family get together, maybe another birthday. So what is a little muscle pain. :)

7. Allow yourself to slow down. You're driving this bus! For the first time today your in control.

8. Sign up for a race. It's a goal to strive for and add a little meaning to your everyday workout.

9. Run/walk in public. Be proud of your accomplishments. Take in all the sites and be an inspiration to others.

10. Just show up. Go to the gym, go to your weekly WW meetings. Once your there, it's hard not to say ''no, I can't do this," 98% of life is showing up.

11. Eat. Follow the healthy food guidelines and don't think, if I use less points, I will lose faster. It's not a race, no sense in putting extra pressure on yourself to lose your weight the fastest. Remember, slow is a good thing, when it comes to weight loss.

12. Understand your energy cycle. Just like in this hot weather we are having and our electricity hits a peak so does our own energy level. For me early mornings work best for my workouts. Try to get your activity in when you are feeling more energized and feeling good about yourself.

13. Wallow in your greatness. You can exercise to become a better exerciser, or you can exercise to become a better mother, father, spouse, teacher, or better friend---or you can become BETTER. Be proud of what you accomplishment.

14. Have Fun. Get back into your childlike spirit. Try to make workouts, ''playouts','' and then it seems like you have it made.

Don't give up on yourself. After all, its' never too late to be that healthy person that is lurking deep inside each and everyone of us.