The Weather Blues

When is this rain going to end? It's been five days since I've exercised outside (for me, it's riding a bike) and I'm tired of my treadmill. There's something about running on that thing that just doesn't seem to have the same effect. Maybe it's my focus. Maybe it's the fact I know there's no snow on the ground, so why am I on the treadmill?

Either way, the weather forecast says it rains until Wednesday. Sigh.

The good news: That's not that long, and it's only May.

Here are some exercise tips from the American Heart Association:

• If you've been sedentary for a long time, are overweight, have a high risk of coronary heart disease or some other chronic health problem, see your doctor for a medical evaluation before beginning a physical activity program.

• Choose activities that are fun, not exhausting. Add variety. Develop a repertoire of several activities that you can enjoy. That way, exercise will never seem boring or routine.
• Use music to keep you entertained.
• Surround yourself with supportive people. Decide what kind of support you need. Do you want them to remind you to exercise? Ask about your progress? Participate with you regularly or occasionally? Allow you time to exercise by yourself? Go with you to a special event, such as a 10K walk/run? Be understanding when you get up early to exercise? Spend time with the children while you exercise? Try not to ask you to change your exercise routine? Share your activity time with others. Make a date with a family member, friend or co-worker. Be an active role model for your children.
• Don't overdo it. Do low- to moderate-level activities, especially at first. You can slowly increase the duration and intensity of your activities as you become more fit. Over time, work up to exercising on most days of the week for 30-60 minutes.
• Keep a record of your activities. Reward yourself at special milestones. Nothing motivates like success!

That record keeping takes the most time, so I wait for --gues what-- rainy days to keep up. Thanks for reading!