So You Don’t Want to Run? Great. Let’s Walk.
So, You Don’t Want to Run? Good. Let’s Walk. A friend of mine recently said she wanted to get in shape—but immediately followed it up with, “But I’m not running.” That stuck with me. We’ve built a culture where fitness seems like it either has to be expensive or extreme. On one side, we’re told we need gym memberships, personal trainers, and expensive gear. On the other, we’re bombarded with supplements, powders, gadgets, and fitness “hacks” that promise quick results.
The truth? It lives somewhere in between. Getting in shape is really just a series of small decisions we make each day, and over time, those add up. So, let’s take a look at some common misconceptions about fitness—and how we can approach it in a way that feels doable for real life.
1. So, You Don’t Want to Run? Great. Let’s Walk Instead.
Here’s a fact: walking can actually burn a comparable number of calories to jogging over time. It’s accessible, low-impact, and works for most people regardless of age or fitness level. You can do it indoors or outdoors, while listening to music, talking on the phone, or just taking in the scenery.
Start small. Maybe it’s just half a mile today. Then tomorrow, try a little more. Consistency is what matters most. And pretty soon, you’ll start feeling the benefits—not just physically, but mentally too.
2. But Don’t You Need a Gym Membership?
Nope. A gym can be helpful, but it’s not necessary. And for many people, it’s expensive and intimidating. During the pandemic, I lost access to the gym and relied on bodyweight workouts at home. I eventually picked up a couple dumbbells and a stationary bike, but honestly, just 30–60 minutes of basic movements kept me in great shape.
If the gym isn’t for you, that’s totally fine. There are endless apps and YouTube workouts out there for all fitness levels. Find what works with your schedule and your environment. The best workout is the one you’ll actually do.
3. “I’m Too Out of Shape to Start”
Everyone starts somewhere. Fitness isn’t linear—it has ups and downs, just like everything else in life. You don’t need a perfect plan, the best gear, or the right timing. You just need to begin.
Consistency over perfection. As you go, you’ll figure out what works for your body and lifestyle. But don’t let being “out of shape” stop you from getting in shape. That’s like saying you're too hungry to eat.
4. What Does “In Shape” Even Mean?
The answer? It depends. For some, it’s about having a defined, muscular look. For others, it’s simply being able to walk a mile without stopping. I’m not here to tell you what “in shape” should mean for you—but I am encouraging you to define it for yourself.
Think of it like your “why.” Why do you want to move more? Why do you want to eat better? Maybe it’s energy, mobility, confidence, or even peace of mind. Whatever your reason is, own it. And don’t compare your goals to anyone else’s—this is your personal journey.
5. “I Just Don’t Have the Time”
Look, I get it. Life is busy. But often, this isn’t about not having time—it’s about not seeing the time. You don’t need a full hour to move your body.
Got 15 minutes? Walk around the house while scrolling your phone.
Got 20? Try a short EMOM (every minute on the minute) workout.
Got an hour? Great—warm up, move, and stretch.
Movement doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Even standing more during the day helps. If you can only work out twice a week, that’s still progress. On the other days, sneak in air squats, lunges, push-ups—whatever gets your heart rate up.
Trust me, the time is there. Try tracking how long you spend doing random stuff—you’ll probably find a few hidden windows for movement.
Final Thoughts
Here’s the real-life hack: consistent movement is the key. Trainers, influencers, apps, and machines—they can all be useful, but they’re just tools. What matters most is building routines that work for you and help you move more often.
The road to being in shape is just that—a road. It’s not a sprint, and it’s not always smooth. But if you keep showing up, making small efforts, and finding ways to move that feel good, you’ll keep progressing.
Thanks for reading—excited to share more with you in the next post!