DEAR ABBY: I’m 19, and for the past year I have been out of my parents’ house (at last!). My parents were mentally and emotionally abusive.
When I was growing up, they used exercise as a punishment. If my brothers or I were late, it was 10 pushups. They also forced us to go through exercise programs. Naturally, as soon as I was free from them, I stopped exercising altogether.
I now realize I need to exercise again as I am technically obese. My problem is, I’m not motivated. I tell myself I’ll go out and run, signed up for a gym – even got a running buddy. But I find myself making excuses and tricking myself out of going. What are some ways I can get going on this ever-growing problem? – CHUBBY IN CALIFORNIA
DEAR CHUBBY: Your parents may have meant well, but they were wrong to use exercise as a punishment.
Being physically active benefits your heart and brain, and in addition, can be an effective stress reducer. It doesn’t necessarily have to be running. Perhaps tennis, bowling or dancing would be more enjoyable for you.