Back when I was still pregnant with my second baby, I was certain I’d restart exercising as soon as my doctor gave me the green light.
Now here I am—almost five months postpartum—and I’m just now beginning to re-discover my exercise groove.
I guess I’d forgotten how tough it can be to find the energy and motivation to break a sweat when you’re consumed by your baby’s needs and running on just a few hours of (broken) sleep.
That’s how life goes sometimes, huh?
In the end, however, I know how important exercise is to my wellbeing, and I truly believe that taking care of myself makes me a better mom. That’s why I’m re-committing myself to an active lifestyle—for my own sake and that of my family.
Just how am I going to make it happen? Here’s a peek at my plan.
5 Simple Steps to Restart Exercising
Step 1. Start easy.
As in, super easy. Even easier than you think you should.
A lot of people who attempt to restart exercising after a hiatus—be it because they had a baby or otherwise—want to jump back in right where they left off.
They want to hop on the treadmill and run a 5K. Or pick up the same size weights they were using before. Or go through the entire Zumba class at maximum intensity.
The problem with that mindset is that it puts you at risk for injury or burnout. You’ll be so exhausted after the first week that the mere sight of your sneakers will have you heading for the couch.
A better approach? Super short exercise sessions at low to medium intensity just a few times a week or so.
That’s my plan because it will help me remember how good it feels to exercise—rather than making it feel like an exhausting chore.
Step 2. Partner up.
Sometimes exercising alone is fun—just pop in your headphones, crank up the tunes, and go—but most of the time it’s better with a friend.
The benefit of finding an exercise partner is that you’re way more likely to actually show up at the gym or the park if you know someone else is waiting for you. If you decide to blow off your workout, you have someone to answer to.
What’s more, exercising in tandem makes it social time—a tough thing to come by for most moms with little ones!
Taking care of your body while also catching up with a pal? Win-win!
Step 3. Dress the part.
Some people love exercising in their ratty old t-shirts, but I find that buying a few new pieces of fun exercise gear gives me just the motivation I need to get out there and get moving.
It makes me want to exercise because I want to wear the clothes!
And when I’m wearing appropriate clothes and shoes that fit well, exercise feels more doable because I feel more physically comfortable.
Plus, anything is possible when you feel confident in your outfit, right?! I recently had the opportunity to try a few new pieces of active apparel from JCPenney to help me restart exercising. Just opening the package in the mail and trying the pieces on gave me a healthy dose of workout motivation!
First I chose these Nike Flex Trainer sneakers because they’re made for a variety of different exercises. At this point I’m not sure if I’ll end up taking Zumba classes, training for a 5K race, or doing something else entirely, so I wanted something that would be comfortable for several activities.
I love how lightweight they are! And the hint of bright pink is a fun touch.
I also picked two pairs of Xersion brand bottoms: one pair of Xersion Double-Band Pants and one pair of Xersion Space-Dyed Colorblock Capris.
This is my first time trying out the Xersion brand, and I’m very impressed! All the items I picked from the brand are both fashionable and high-quality—plus, lots of Xersion items come in regular, petite, and plus sizes, so they’re made to accommodate lots of different body types.
I especially love that both of these pants feature moisture-wicking fabric and no-chafe seams for extra comfort while I’m working out.
For tops, I went with this bright pink Xersion Short-Sleeve V-Neck T-Shirt, which goes perfectly with the capris and sneakers I picked. Most of JCPenney’s activewear is easily mixed and matched, which makes getting dressed for the gym a breeze.
I also love that this top is multifunctional; I can wear it to exercise or pair it with jeans on the weekend.
Perhaps my favorite piece of all is this Xersion Long-Sleeve Half-Zip Pullover. I love the teal blue color!
It features reflective details, which will be great for evening jogs in low-light visibility, plus thumbholes to help keep the sleeves in place. And it’s the perfect weight for combatting the slight chill of fall outdoor workouts.
I also picked out this Champion Distance Underwire Sports Bra. I’m currently breastfeeding my infant, and I find that I need a lot of extra support in that area when I’m exercising. This sports bra is incredible! It provides amazing support and also gives great shape—no squished uni-boob here!
I’m really pleased with all of the workout apparel I received from JCPenney. I’m excited to exercise again just so I can wear it more!
Step 4. Try something new.
Sure, you used to be a runner or a diehard Pilates gal. But trying to jump back into those same activities can be discouraging since, like I mentioned before, you probably won’t be able to perform at the level you remember.
Avoid that discouragement completely by instead trying something new and exciting—maybe a new group fitness class, a new cardio machine at the gym, or a new exercise DVD.
I’m reminding myself that just because I didn’t like a certain type of exercise before doesn’t mean I won’t like it now—and restarting exercising is the perfect time to give something new a try.
Step 5. Reward yourself just for showing up.
When you’re just restarting an exercise routine, you really don’t need to worry about how fast you went or how high you jumped or how many reps you completed.
All that matters is that you did something.
So instead of getting fixated on the numbers or the speed, I’m going to pat myself on the back just for showing up—be it at the gym or on the sidewalk or in my living room with a workout video.
Especially for busy moms, getting there is half the battle (and probably more like 90 percent when you’re restarting from scratch), so be sure to give yourself the credit you’re due no matter how your actual workout ends up going.
What’s one new piece of workout apparel you’d love to have? Share in the comments below for a chance to win a $100 JCPenney gift card!
Entry Instructions:
No duplicate comments.
You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry methods:
1. Leave a comment in response to the sweepstakes prompt on this post
2. Tweet (public message) about this promotion; including exactly the following unique term in your tweet message: โ#SweepstakesEntryโ; and leave the URL to that tweet in a comment on this post
3. Blog about this promotion, including a disclosure that you are receiving a sweepstakes entry in exchange for writing the blog post, and leave the URL to that post in a comment on this post
4. For those with no Twitter or blog, read the official rules to learn about an alternate form of entry.
This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older (or nineteen (19) years of age or older in Alabama and Nebraska). Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by email. The notification email will come directly from BlogHer via the sweeps@blogher email address. You will have 2 business days to respond; otherwise a new winner will be selected.
The Official Rules are available here.
This sweepstakes runs from 10/26/2015 – 11/26/2015
Be sure to visit JCPenney’s brand page on BlogHer.com where you can read other bloggers’ posts!
284 responses to “How to Restart Exercising in 5 Simple Steps”
I need to get back into the swing of exercising. I have been traveling a lot and I got out of my routine.
I workout every day. Proper clothing and footwear is essential.
One new workout appeal I want is Nike tank top and Nike sneakers
What great tips for restarting your workout and cute workput clothes.
I would love to stock up on a few pairs of soft leggings.
chambanachik(at)gmail(dot)com
These are great tips for getting back into the swing of things. I may use these myself because I’ve been off track for a while now.
All of these tips are right on, especially #1. I really love your pink tee. I think cute workout clothes make it easier to motivate yourself to put them on and work up a sweat!
I’d like a good sports bra.
mami2jcn at gmail dot com
https://twitter.com/OneFrugalGirl/status/659099560363610113
I just tried toto start up again. I think I pushed myself too hard.
tweet–https://twitter.com/mami2jcn/status/659100827836137476
I could use some new sports bras. Iโve changed sizes a lot while I breastfed the first boy and now my second ๐
I never really did get back into it, but it’s never too late. The sports bras look incredible. And I like the idea of starting easy!
I need new shoes to help me get out and walk and a new warm exercise suit with a hoodie and soft pants to keep me warm in the winter months!
tweet-https://twitter.com/JewelWood/status/659112558280904708
i need a good sports bra
I would like to get a sports bra
tweet https://twitter.com/ElenaIstomina/status/659118745621696512
[…] Enter this Giveaway at Pick Any Two […]
I desperately need some new work out bottoms! Most of mine are stretched out and smelly!
I would like to have a new pair of sneakers.
it is SO tough to get started and get motivated and much easier to say – tomorrow! I need to be back in my exercise routine as well! too much sitting and grading papers!
I’d love to get a new sports bra! The one you mentioned sounds like a great option for good support needed while nursing!
These are great steps, I totally need to start a new program!
I have a 5 month old also (my second) and am in desperate need of energy! Have no choice but to start exercising before work again. Just wish he slept through the night ๐ Thank you for the great info…showed up in my inbox at a perfect time for me.
Starting easy is really important to remember. The pink shirt looks super comfortable and can be worn anywhere.
These are great, practical tips. And so timely. I need to get back into a routine.
I have fallen off my routine since I moved. You have shared some timely and useful tips.
I would try a new jacket. Something wind-resistant would be good this time of year!
These are great steps to take. I used to have a whole morning routine and it would be nice to get back into it.
These are great steps to take, I definitely need to add this back into my routine.
great tips~ i’d love to get a new sports bra!
I would love to have a new pair of yoga pants.
It is important to exercise and stay in good physical condition. Your tips will help people to do just that.
I need new shoes and a sports bra. working out is important.
I would like a good pair of running shoes. Thanks.
I would love to win! Also, these are some really great tips!
I need new shoes to start walking again.
tweeted- https://twitter.com/SandyM204/status/659313201197293569
I’d love some new tennis shoes!
The one thing I need is a really good pair of tennis shoes with great arch support.
I would like to have a work out top that doesn’t lift up on me when I bend over but isn’t so tight that I feel uncomfortable! Your picks look great!
tweet
https://twitter.com/jbmthill/status/659335589825658880
I used to have an exercise partner and I loved it. It did hold me accountable but it was more fun to exercise with someone too.
I would love a sports bra that fits perfect and has strong support, no bouncing….that would be living the dream!
https://twitter.com/ZenasTaylor/status/659350988600528896
I REALLY need to get back to exercising. A new pair of good tennis shoes are something I need.
I need a some comfortable, supportive shoes for exercising.
these are great tips. I am having a baby any day now and I am hoping to jump right back on the horse as far as my exercise goes…but I know I will have to take it easy at first and easy my way back into things.
Tweet https://twitter.com/SmallSlice/status/659356393355485184
I exercise everyday and need some new flattering running pants that don’t look (and smell worn out)
I would love some new yoga pants and running shoes!
I need new running shoes <3
I’d love some new running shoes!
I’d love to get some new shoes!
i would get some yoga pants
I’d like to have the Made For Lifeโข Breast Cancer Awareness Pants
I would really like new shoes for walking and going to the gym.
I could use a new pair of yoga pants.
I tweeted about the giveaway. https://twitter.com/poisonsix9/status/659395685033320448
These are some great tips. I would love to have a couple of pair of the Jockey Slim pants and a jacket.
https://twitter.com/tatzgrrly/status/659400308578254848
I need some new workout shoes
I could really use a new pair of running shoes.
I need long sleeved shirt for riding my bike during the fall and winter. I was riding 5 days a week but have been slacking due the shorter daylight hours.
I would really like a good pair of cross trainer shoes.
I would love a new pair of colorful Capri pants for running.
tweet https://twitter.com/laroyal06/status/659412014897344513
I’d like a few new sports bras with cups (not shelf bra), and adjustable straps that aren’t $50-plus each. I also need a shaker bottle that doesn’t leak for post-workout protein shakes.
I’d like a new pair of workout capris.
A new pair of walking or hiking shoes.
tweet-https://twitter.com/LuLu_Brown24/status/659417637630275584
This sounds like me only i’m 10 months postpartum, not 5 =X LOL! These are all great steps to take and I love the idea of rewarding yourself for making an effort!
I would love to have a good supportive sports bra.
tweet
https://twitter.com/1amypugmire/status/659420384077320192
w
I would like a new pair of workout pants or new tennis shoes.
I need to get my butt back in gear… I always say that and I try then I get bored and give up. Pathetic really I know! Sometimes I feel like the only reason I’m not working out is because I can’t get out of my own way! Love the adorable work out gear!
I’d love to have new workout clothes!
I’d love some new shoes that can go with all of my workout outfits…
Nikeยฎ Flex Trainer 5 Womens Training Shoes
I so need to start working out again, I was doing so well this summer. I could really use some new sneakers and some cute workout clothes to make me feel alive…thanks for the inspiration!
Here is my tweet:
https://twitter.com/Jessicalm77/status/659442939026780160
I really could use some new running shoes. Mine are falling apart!
https://twitter.com/yarbr012/status/659443832027639808
I definitely need a new pair of good shoes to keep my legs in shape!
Great ideas and super cute outfits! I think the key is def partnering up! Thanks for the advice!
I think if I had proper clothing I would feel more comfortable with working out, proper pants and shirt,
https://twitter.com/channynn/status/659454043647930368
tweeted ๐
https://twitter.com/tisonlyme143/status/659454359881830400
I need better bras! Been back on the wagon for a while and feels great!
I’m not much of a capri person but you make them look so cute! I think I would have to try something new and get myself a pair of them.
Thank you for the giveaway. I’m always looking for new tops to wear and would love to have Xersion Short-Sleeve V-Neck T-Shirt, or the long sleeved. I, however, I have a hard time finding pants that fit my long torso.
I tweeted: https://twitter.com/RTenderholt/status/659469072283799553
I would have to say that it would be a sports bra
https://twitter.com/sandyhills25/status/659471877367197697
A really good sports bra!
I could use some new socks.
I need some black compression work out shorts
groogruxking40 @ gmail dot com
I’d like to get some new sneakers. I’ve been using my old pair for 2 years now and I’m really due for a new pair.
I’d like a new pair of athletic shoes
Tweeted- https://twitter.com/iamlivin4god/status/659521059612286976
An amazing new pair of tennis shoes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I would have to say a new sports bra would be what I would most need.
https://twitter.com/pumpkinsfan1976/status/659531598061109248
I need some good sports bras that are comfortable but also supportive.
https://mobile.twitter.com/GigiLambrusco/status/659533628481912834
i love my raggedy old sweats
https://twitter.com/raggammuffin/status/659543411167506432
I need new sneakers
I would love to have more breathable shirts.
https://twitter.com/willgriesmer/status/659546142980644864
I would like to get a pair of Xersion double band pants.
I’d love to get a new sweater and gloves.
I also need a new pair of walking shoes..
I would love to have Nike In-Season 5 Womens Training Shoes.
tcarolinep at gmail dot com
tweet-https://twitter.com/tcarolinep/status/659581273212518400
Looking good! I love the pink! New work out clothes are a great way to stay motivated.
The one new piece of workout apparel I’d love to have are a nice pair of workout pants. It always feels great to have a new pair.
I also twitted. https://twitter.com/1988Jessicap/status/659585947726708736
I would like to have a pair of workout capris for a more comfortable workout.
thank you
Tweet https://twitter.com/JalapenoMama/status/659656624588492800
Nike Flex 5 Trainer Womens Shoes for my wife
a good sports bra
https://twitter.com/sweetums82/status/659753961113706498
I need new yoga pants.
https://twitter.com/rusthawk/status/659766812524048384
I’m in dire need of new workout pants! Mine are a little holey and.. too big now! ๐
Tweeted: https://twitter.com/angelftw2/status/659769252358983681
A new sports bra would be great.
I need everything from the entire list.
I would love a new workout jacket. It is starting to get really cold in CO.
One new piece I need is a new pair of shoes! My aching feet need more cushion, or even a new cushions, like new pair!
a new pair of running shoes for me
I would love some new workout capris:)
Jmatek AT wi DOT rr DOT com
Great tips! I really need to get back into exercising.
I’d like to have the Nike Flex Trainer sneakers!
Thanks for a chance at the giveaway!
I’d love to get some new running shoes!
https://twitter.com/XArea51/status/659946061872562176
I love the double-band pants
tweeted message https://twitter.com/mahnrafjtb/status/660086750946152448
I love your tips, it is so easy to get out of your routine or to get side tracked and neglect your exercise routine.
I could use a good pair of running shoes!
I need a sports bra that is supportive but comfortable!
Tweeted: https://twitter.com/theimaginetree/status/660499920902889472
I would love to have some capris to work out in.
tweeted: https://twitter.com/slr8/status/660516896144539648
I’d love to have some workout leggings or capris. I only own shorts right now.
maddiembrubaker {at} gmail [dot] com
Tweet link: https://twitter.com/shala_darkstone/status/660592542371590144
maddiembrubaker {at} gmail [dot] com
I would love a comfy pair of tennis shoes!
I tweeted! https://twitter.com/kdrabellamy/status/660659659192139776
Iโd like to have a pair of running pants that hit below the knee.
Since I lost some weight, my workout clothes are too big. If I win this card, I will get myself a new exercise wardrobe.
I need some new capri pants to wear!
https://twitter.com/KappaVelvit/status/660909273682087936
I love the running jacket colors! Super cute
I would have to say that I would love to have the Xersionโข Essential Bootleg Pants
tweeted – https://twitter.com/sandyhills25/status/660972610113568768
I just started back working out and joined a gym. I need to get some running shoes and more pants to work out in.
Tweeted https://mobile.twitter.com/ash4rel/status/661250933473550340
I’d like to have the Made For Life Brushed Fleece Jacket
The one new piece of workout apparel I would love to have is yoga pants! I always wanted to learn yoga!
amy [at] utry [dot] it
tweeted:
https://twitter.com/uTry_it/status/661290247548899328
amy [at] utry [dot] it
I would like a long sleeve running shirt so I can continue in cold weather
I could really use a pair of comfortable sneakers.
I would love to have a new pair of sneakers.
I Would really love a new pair of shoes. They make all the difference in my workouts!
starting easy is the big one for me….just getting started…and nothing is more motivating than knowing it’ll be easy. after i get started, it doesn’t even have to be easy because then i’m into it.
One new piece of workout apparel that I would love to have is a new pair of good walking shoes as mine are worn out.
I would like a new pair of walking shoes as my preferred form of exercise is walking
would love to win a new snickers
I would love really comfortable sports bra and workout pants.
Link to tweet: https://twitter.com/Le123Ing/status/662115089906929664
I want to start walking and could use comfortable walking shoes.
I tweeted: https://twitter.com/kening4141/status/662117321167667200
I’d like a good, new sports bra. As it is, I normally end up layering sports bras to get the support I need.
these are awesome tips. i would love to get a new pair of shoes.
The Jockeyยฎ Slim Bootleg Pants would be great for my daily walking.
Tweet
https://twitter.com/clc408/status/662257129374523392
great giveaway… would be nice to get some new sneakers and some winter walking apparel
I would love to get a good sports bra!
I tweeted
https://twitter.com/my4boysand1/status/662277240294625280
I’d love more workout leggings and some supportive sports bras! And a new pair of running shoes would be icing on the cake!
I’d like some jog pants
I would definitely love a new sports bra or 2!
I would love a comfy pair of leggings!
A new sports bra! Pregnancy and nursing has ensured that none of my sports bras really fit anymore. Whomp whomp.
Comfortable shoes are a must when exercising and a nice sports bra is great!
https://mobile.twitter.com/michael64263870/status/662744723426177025
I’d like new yoga pants.
I need shoes with good tread and easy to put on and take off.
I have a rotator cuff injury I’m rehabing so I need a zip front sports bra.
https://twitter.com/suburbsanity/status/662984447256600576
I need to get a new pair of capri yoga pants
I would love some new workout clothes.
I would like a fit bit!
Shared here https://twitter.com/mercedeslyne/status/663492849367982080
I’d like some nice warm leggings for this newly cold weather.
tweeted
https://twitter.com/rubylorikeet/status/663964253645180928
I would love a great pair of running shoes!
tweet – https://twitter.com/littlebird_xo/status/664356456225878016
I could use some yoga pants and sports bras!
tweeted https://twitter.com/jessicasweepss/status/664622050888273920
I would love to have the Xersion Double-Band Pants and I am thrilled they have petite sizes.
I tweeted the contest with #SweepstakesEntry -> https://twitter.com/DarkMysticNight/status/664704988015370240
I could use some new sports bras.
https://twitter.com/HappyTina0115/status/664997482275979265
I need some running shoes bad!
https://mobile.twitter.com/Esham4life/status/665766577116180482
I need some more workout pants for the winter. I have mostly capri length workout pants and they aren’t warm enough for the winter months.
I tweeted https://twitter.com/shanerus2/status/665799944247246848
I would like some pretty knit capris to exercise in
Carolsue
Digicats {at} Sbcglobal {dot} Net
I’d love to get the Nike Club Fleece Long-Sleeve FZ Hoodie. Thanks so much.
Tweeted: https://twitter.com/peg42/status/666051473793511424
Thanks again.
I would love some leggings like these–http://www.jcpenney.com/xersion-colorblock-taped-leggings/prod.jump?ppId=pp5006130417&searchTerm=leggings&catId=SearchResults&_dyncharset=UTF-8
Thanks for the chance to win!
wildorchid985 AT gmail DOT com
tweet–https://twitter.com/WildOrchid985/status/666264809013428224
wildorchid985 AT gmail DOT com
A good sports bra would do it.
I need more leggings for the coming cold!
New sports bra!
I would love to have a good quality exercise bra.
I tweeted : https://twitter.com/Liese2/status/668264525397803008
I love any of the new tops with the thumb holes.
https://twitter.com/eliza_elliott/status/668439802266542080
I’d love some new walking shoes!
tweeted: https://twitter.com/KerryBishop/status/668446493272113152
I could really use a nice sports bra for working out.
Tweeted https://twitter.com/StaceyRenee711/status/668670715139371008
I need more supportive walking shoes
https://mobile.twitter.com/kytah00/status/669136598647201793
Jogging pants would be great since I don’t have any!
I would love good running shoes!
I need a new pair of running shoes. Adidas are my favorite!
https://twitter.com/3taratops/status/669328292667879424
One new piece of workout apparel that I would love to have is a sports bra that has clasps in the front. I’ve had some in the past and they were so much easier to get on and off than the kind of sports bras that you just pull over your head.
Thanks for the tips, especially rewarding yourself just for showing up. I needed that reminder.
I need some new leggings and new athletic shoes with really good arch support.
Tweet – https://twitter.com/willitara/status/669444946282311680
I’d love to have a new pair of shorts.
https://twitter.com/willgriesmer/status/669496134704984064
I would love to have some leggings/bike shorts. They used to be so comfy back in the day. hahahaha
I tweeted here: https://twitter.com/MsTofuFairy/status/669514512744259584
I need some new workout shoes — hoping to get Asics this time!
Tweeted: https://twitter.com/pixel_berry_pie/status/669565702693519360
Iโd love to get a new sports bra!
https://twitter.com/susan1215/status/669603573940944896
I’d really like to have some new workout pants, not necessarily yoga pants though. I like the legging style like your capris in the pic above.
tweeted – https://twitter.com/dmarie824/status/669597961861533696
i’d love a new supportive workout top since I’m still nursing
The piece of work out apparel I would like is a sports bra.
https://twitter.com/RachelGriesmer/status/669670759233515521
One piece of workout wear I would love to have is the Xersion Double-Band pants.
I need a new pair of yoga pants.
I need some new workout pants badly
tweeted
https://twitter.com/lmurley2014/status/669749709997780992
I would like new running shoes.
tweeted
https://twitter.com/thomasmurphy40/status/669756075512565760
I have a hard time finding a decent bra and I would love a sports bra for fuller figure women with great support
tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com
tweet https://twitter.com/ChelleB36/status/669756047712780288
tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com
This was a nice article. Around the holiday I become a slacker and then feel guilty afterwards. I have already started slacking off so I am going to try these tips.
Tweeted https://twitter.com/magspie0/status/669860745253883904
compression pants
tweet
https://twitter.com/aes529/status/669913767673790465
I would love to have comfortable yoga pants. They usually don’t give me good stretching room.
https://twitter.com/SeymaShabbir/status/669920193355845632
I would like a new sports bra and leggings!
Tweeted https://twitter.com/KKihega/status/669949241675091970
I would love to stock up on a few pairs of soft leggings.
I tweeted: https://twitter.com/missdewey/status/669974002635436032
I do need new exercise clothes that fit. I dread tiring to squeeze into the workout pants from pre baby. But then that means I don’t exercise. Vicious cycle.
I too, have started exercising within the last two months. I have bought a few pieces to get started but one item I really need is a good exercise bra like the Nikeยฎ Victory Compression Bra found at JCPenney’s.
I would love new sneakers and a fitness tracker.
I really need so,e new workout tights for winter! nike or underarmour ๐
i need some comfy shoes
I would love a new pair of shoes
https://twitter.com/purplelover04/status/670073954195931136
I would love to have new shoes.
I like the Xersionโข Double-Band Pants. Thank you
i’d love to have some new walking shoes
Some awesome yoga pants!
https://twitter.com/LittleMomMaid/status/670107111876075520
I would love to have some new tennis shoes and these are great tips for me because I am trying to get back in it!
[…] Read more […]
[…] (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Read more […]
I never have to talk myself in to going for a power walk. My first choice is going with a friend, and if no one is available I just take my cell phone and use the time to catch up with a friend, my parents, or one of my siblings.
It actually brings me joy and is rarely something I have to โget over withโ.
Love how you turn it into a social experience!