Overcoming Prewedding Workout Blues

By Brianne DiSylvester WeddingChannel.com

Every bride wants to look svelte, toned and buff on her wedding day — but actually getting a rock hard body is another story. Hours in the gym, exhausting workouts and planning the wedding can make any bride-to-be want to curl up in bed with a pint of ice cream. While there are myriad excuses to avoid the gym, we have just as many reasons to keep you moving! Our tips for overcoming the workout blues will make you one buff bride just in time for your wedding day.

Body issues

The Problem: If the thought of stepping into a gym makes you break into a cold sweat, you’re not alone. The fear that everyone is eyeing your body in spandex is enough to make any woman feel self- conscious.

The Solution: Get over it! The more times you go, the more comfortable you’ll feel. Make it a routine so there’s no extra time to think about being nervous. Create a workout music mix perfectly timed for each session so you can zone out with your iPod. By the end of your workout, the only thing you’ll care about is the amount of calories you’ve burned.

Dwindling funds

The Problem: Between the rehearsal dinner, wedding ceremony, reception AND honeymoon, who has the money for extra splurges like a pricey gym membership? Depending on your state, memberships can cost up to $100 per month! Don’t think you’re off the hook yet — there are still ways to feel the burn without burning a hole in your wallet.

The Solution: Go back to basics and make your sneakers and the street your new best friends. Jogging or speed walking is a great way to get in some serious cardio and pump up your metabolism. If you’re not that ambitious, set up a mini gym at home with a yoga mat, hand weights and a jump rope. You can even tune in to On Demand workout programs at your convenience (they have everything from kickboxing to Pilates) or TiVo your favorite ones for later. Whichever cheap activity you choose, just remember to keep moving — every little bit counts!

Lacking motivation

The Problem: After a stressful day at the office, it’s hard to keep your energy up and make a trip to the gym a reality. Even though you pumped yourself up all day long, most brides end up changing their minds and skipping out. Luckily, keeping your motivation alive is easy with these tips.

The Solution: Enlist a little help from your friends, family and husband-to-be. Team up with your bridesmaids and make the gym a social event. As long as you have someone by your side, you’ll be more likely to stick to your game plan. Be sure to track your progress, too.

(c) 2008 Dayton Daily News. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved.