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Walking Excuse Busters
Excuse: Family

By Wendy Bumgardner, About.com

Updated August 22, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

You want to be faithful to your walking routine, but as you head out the door you get pouts and whines from your loved ones.

Bust it:
• Acknowledge that you love them.
• Use "I" statements, don't bring up their own shortcomings or accuse them of sabotaging your exercise efforts.
• Ask them to support you in your healthy activities. "I need to walk to (lose weight, feel healthy, control my blood sugar, control my mood, get fit, heart health, etc.). It's hard for me to step out the door, I need your encouragement to do it."
• Make a commitment to spend time with them, "I'll be back in just a little bit, and then we can (insert joint activity here.)"
• Invite them to join you, "I would love for you to come out with me today." You may have to promise to go their pace, for a shorter distance, etc.
• If they aren't walkers, suggest places on your route for them to meet you in the car or on bike to bring you water, etc. Involve them in your workout. Many people training for a marathon involve their children and spouses this way as their "pit crew."
• Take an interest in their sport or hobby, ask them questions about it, listen to their stories, attend their events as a spectator.

Excuse Buster Tools
How to be Assertive

Next Excuse > It's Boring

More Walking Excuses
Too Busy to Walk
Scared to Walk Alone
It's Lonely Walking Alone
It's Too Cold
Too Hot
I'm Sore
My Feet Hurt
I've Got a Cold
My Family Misses Me
It's Boring
Unmotivated
Can't Get Out the Door
I'm Too Fat
I'm Too Old
Sensitive Problems

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