It’s pretty clear that regular exercise helps with ADHD. Except I just can’t get it going. I always fail to insert it into my daily routine, when I force myself to do it, I’ll always give up a few days after, it’s a huge effort for me, I keep trying but I always fail. Does anyone have any tips on how to make exercising more… ADHD friendly, so to speak?
Try to get yourself a workout buddy. Someone you can be accountable
I completely understand. Currently on a one month exercise sabbatical 😂😭 Working out in the morning is usually best for my day, so when I get up I put on my workout clothes. Honestly nothing is worse to me than my sports bra so I am more likely to get the workout out of the way so I can change. (Protip it doesn't always work so don't beat yourself up when hacks fail) Workout buddies can usually push me to show up in person or online. I like the gym for variety but also have a simple set up at home and online program I use. Current fave is job 1 on bodi. 20 minutes and I'm done. Start with movement. Go for a walk in the morning or during lunch or after dinner to wind down.
Have you tried doing something else at the same time? I struggle with this too. My longest runs of success have been when I combine the exercise with other things like walking on the treadmill while watching TV. Another one that tends to work for me is listening to an audiobook while I’m biking. Keeping my mind busy seems to help. The only other tactic I can suggest is a bit more extreme. When I have been really desperate to ramp up exercise, I have made decisions, like selling my car, to force my future self to walk. It doesn’t necessarily have to be so drastic but to make it work you have to commit to something now that forces your future self to act. This is a technique I use when I really want to overcome ADHD related barriers like low motivation, boredom, and impulse control.
I totally understand. It’s how I feel too. When I go I feel amazing and it helps so much. Actually feel normal. But to motivate yourself is so hard. Maybe an accountability person? I’m happy to be that!!
When you figure it out let me know.
