distractions CAN be beneficial.

We're always told to FOCUS when we have a goal. Focus on the end-result. Focus on the steps it will take to get to that end-result. Without focus, it's easy to lose sight of how that particular goal is going to be achieved. Focus, focus, focus.

Sometimes focusing is overrated. And exhausting.

I need to not focus during some of my cardio workouts. Sure, there are times when cardio workouts need lots of focusing (i.e. training for a marathon, 5K, a triathlon, etc.). But when it's not one of those times, I need to let my mind wander. I need to listen to the lyrics of the music playing from my earbuds. I need to listen to the comical banter between the characters on my favorite show. I need to not focus on how much time or distance I have left to complete. I'm appreciative of distractions such as music and television. These cardio workouts become a way for me to enjoy exercise and relieve stress.

This isn't to say I don't pay attention. There have been incidents where I don't focus or pay attention, and I'm on the cardio machine for too long or not long enough or the workout was too easy. Failing to pay attention can lead to wasted time. I don't prefer to waste time unknowingly. Planning on wasting time, well, that's another story.

SO if you're sick of your cardio workouts already (remember your New Year's resolution?) try to not focus on your next workout and instead enjoy a rerun of Arrested Development or maybe your favorite soundtrack. This mental break can help you push yourself harder on your next workout without actually taking a physical break from your routine.

(Uhhhhh...but let's make sure we focus on our foot-placement so we don't do any face-plants, k?)

Your reason?

Reason(s) I will exercise today:

I'm training to decrease my mile time
I've got to lower my blood pressure
I'm going to be stronger
I'm will reshape my body
I want to see my kids graduate from high school
Oh, those "skinny jeans"
I love getting fresh morning air & seeing the sun rise
It's part of my daily routine
I'll see so-and-so in step/spinning/kickboxing class
I like seeing more definition in my muscles
My iPod exercise music list is THE BEST
I ate more than I planned last weekend
The 5k is coming up
Looking forward to some "me time"

What's your reason?

Frustration = Motivation

There are some emotions felt in life that can be used to motivate you to exercise. Mostly they are the negative feelings that give us a surge of bad energy. If you really try, you can turn this negativity into something positive. Harboring ill feelings within us isn't healthy (especially for your heart) and you've got to learn to let those things go.

Scientifically speaking, exercising releases endorphins that help put us in a better mood. Why not move your muscles for 20-30 minutes when you're stressing over something to help you feel closer to your normal happy?

IMO frustration has GOT to be my number one emotion that gets me moving. It doesn't matter if it's been a single person, a group of people, or a people-less situation that has sent me through the roof; if I'm frustrated I will exercise to help get rid of those feelings. (On the flip side of that, I'll exercise when I'm happy too.)

Do you exercise to help you feel better? Consider that the next time you're ready to punch a hole in the wall. :)

~Amy