In the past year I've had many fitness-related discussions with clients, family, and friends.  People are always wondering how much 'work' they have to do to get in shape (whatever that means), and inevitably I'll hear the question - with a tone of desperation - , "Elizabeth,
do you work out all the time?"

I have to say I disagree with the premise of the question.  For me, work is anything I don't enjoy but that I decide to do because I should for my own good.  For example, dusting, ironing, and getting my yearly physical are all work.   I hate working.  Still, I do all these things to combat allergies, not look like an utter slob (I try, REALLY I do), and keep on the up and up health-wise.

I choose not to say I 'work out' due to the connotation work has for me.  I exercise, I move, and I enjoy it.  I like walking my dog because he's my best buddy.  I go for a run if the weather's nice because it feels so great when I'm done.  I climb ropes and hang from trapeze bars because it's fun.  I also find that if I don't call something 'work' it doesn't seem so hard, and allowing myself to dislike some forms of exercise has given me room to enjoy others.

I have participated in dozens of types of fitness activities in my 30+ years on this planet and I have come to this:  the first step to enjoy moving again is to allow yourself to hate working out.  Realizing you don't have to love something, even though it's good for you, is a sweet release that offers you unimaginable possibilities.