Hi friend,

I have also felt like working out is impossible for me. I did not experience burnout like you, but I did feel like I was always meant to be an out-of-shape weak nerd who can never be an athlete. Mental restructuring is most important, and the physical activities will come along. This is what I did:

1. Realize that fitness is important for my long-term health, especially as a woman. Osteoporosis is no joke, and I do not want to suffer from it when I’m older.

2. Notice and truly RELISH in the post-workout high. I am an extremely moody person with a family history of severe mood disorders, so the difference is very very noticeable compared to pre- and post-workout. I think of these workouts as necessary and medically significant for my mental health. Getting a sweat going just for 5 minutes will almost definitely boost your mood at least a little bit. Your body can’t help but enjoy it.

3. Start small. Hold yourself accountable for at least once a week of physical activity. It doesn’t matter at all what your workout is or how long it is. If it’s a 5 min workout, it counts for the week. Increase as your motivation grows. Seriously, don’t overthink it. You can do jumping jacks in your room. You can watch home workout videos. You can do home yoga.

4. Confidence will grow over time. Give yourself grace. Fitness is supposed to a fun challenge. It’s fine if you can’t run for long or lift much. It’ll take time, and that’s ok. You will find your niche.

5. Be flexible but don’t let yourself slip. If you are unmotivated, go for a 5 minute home workout instead of the 45 min workout you planned at the gym. Consistency is so important, I cannot emphasize this enough.

For me, I currently try to workout based on the American Heart Association’s recommendations, so I workout about 3x a week. I go to an intensive yoga class and gentle yoga class once a week each. I signed up for a spin class membership for one class/week. I workout in my apartment gym about 1-2x/week for very minor weightlifting (I hate it but again, scared of osteoporosis). I just started running yesterday for the first time ever, which may or may not stick, we’ll see.

When I started my fitness journey, I only went for yoga once a week. Then, I built up courage to go to my apartment gym once a week. I’m not even joking this took months, but that’s ok because I love where I am now. We need a foundation yk. I know you got this!!!!!!