Don't Feel Like Exercising?

Confession Time...

I did NOT want to exercise this morning!

My cycling buddy was on a business trip today, so I had a really tough time motivating myself to get out the door for a solo workout.  

It was overcast, cold and windy...the perfect weather conditions for crawling back into bed and curling up under the covers for an extra hour of sleep. My alarm went off at 6am and it took me about 20 minutes (okay...it may have been a wee bit longer than that) to convince myself that moving my butt was a much better idea than going back to sleep.  

You know what? I'm so glad I did! I feel energized, strong, happier and ready to take on the day now that I started it off with a heart pumping, sweaty bike ride.  I shouldn't sound so surprised though. After a workout, it is very rare that I regret my decision, even on days that I really didn't want to go in the first place.

So on those days when you don't want to exercise (particularly if you're a morning exerciser), ask yourself:

What are the consequences of not exercising? What are the benefits? How will I feel afterward? Better? Worse?

You always have a choice. Make the one that best supports your goals.