Many moons ago we bought a stationary bike. Back when Sports Authority was still a place. They promptly went out of business and one of the pedals became stripped, rendering the bike unusable and unreturnable. Yes, it took me all these years to finally order the parts needed to fix the damnable thing. And last night was the first time we were able to use it. (Shocker: Still works!)

This is actually one of the smartest investments we have made and it will be even smarter of me to use it. So many reasons this is a good idea. ALL THE REASONS!

1. Beat the heat!
2. Low impact!
3. Fat burning cardio!
4. Great cross training for running!
5. No gym!
6. Saves time and money!

Wow, now that these advantages are all listed out I feel like a real heel for not being on the bike constantly. Let’s have a little fun and list out all my lame excuses too…

1. Saddle sore.
2. It is indoors.
3. Morning comes too early. (See what I did there Spouse™?)
4. We have to take turns working out.
5. Saddle sore.
6. It is indoors.

Ok, so now lets’ get over the lame and defeat those excuses!

Problem: Saddle Sore
Solution: Ride more!! It takes time to adjust to the seat. Also, be sure the bike is set up properly.

Problem: Indoors
Solution: Listen to music, an audio book, or a podcast. I don’t listen to music when I run outdoors. Being a trail runner I like to hear the sounds of nature, the rhythm of my own foot fall, and bears.

Problem: Morning Comes Too Early
Solution: Keep the evening workouts. On weeknights I always workout in the evening. This is only a problem when it is either really hot or really dark. I was going to overhaul my workout schedule, but maybe I really don’t need to do that.

Problem: We Have to Take Turns Working Out
Solution: Let The Spouse™ ride first if we are on the same schedule. Typically he is home earlier then I am, so crisis averted. Last night I just did my stretches and a bit of strength while I awaited my turn.

See? That was easy. In the end, we all have our excuses for not doing the things we know we should be doing for better health. Eventually, once we have been telling ourselves lies for so long we believe ourselves. “I can’t run” “I can’t fit in exercise” “I don’t have time” “It is too hard”

You only can’t do it if you won’t do it. Small steps are ok. Moving backwards as you move forward is ok. The important thing is to do it.