The Only Bad Workout is the One That Didn’t Happen.

It’s easy to come up with excuses: a packed day of work meetings, family responsibilities, errands, and the general feeling of ‘I just don’t have time today.’ We've all been there. Yesterday, I found myself facing exactly that challenge. With a busy schedule and a list of reasons not to lace up my trainers, the temptation to skip my 5K run was strong. But then I reminded myself of a simple truth: ‘The only bad workout is the one that didn’t happen.’

It’s something I always encourage with my clients. Life will get in the way, and there will always be moments where skipping a workout seems justified. But I know first-hand the transformative power of pushing through. The reality is, finding those moments in a hectic day to squeeze in a run—or any workout—can make all the difference, not just physically but mentally.

Pushing Through the Excuses

Yesterday was a whirlwind. My day was stacked from start to finish, but I knew that if I didn’t make time for myself, the excuses would win. I could have easily said, “I’ll run tomorrow,” or “I’ve earned a rest day.” And while those things can be true, the benefits of consistency outweigh the temporary comfort of putting it off. So I squeezed in that 5K. It wasn’t my longest or fastest run, but the sense of wellbeing I felt afterwards made every step worth it.

Completing that workout was more than just ticking off a box; it was a win for my mental clarity, focus, and energy. There’s something about conquering that mental barrier and making time for yourself that sets the tone for the rest of the day. It wasn’t about running the perfect 5K; it was about getting out there and doing it.

Why Being Coached Matters

One of the biggest benefits of working with a coach, like me, is that I help guide my clients through these exact situations. I understand the real-life obstacles we face, and I know that motivation doesn’t always come naturally. My approach is tailored to keep you accountable, find the gaps in your busy schedule, and make the most out of whatever time you do have. Whether it’s a 20-minute home workout or squeezing in a quick run, I’ll help you structure your routine so that fitness becomes a natural part of your day, rather than something you have to stress over.

Through coaching, you not only gain access to personalised workout plans, but also the mindset and support to get you through those tough days when your motivation is running low. The key is consistency, and sometimes all it takes is having someone in your corner reminding you of the benefits—both immediate and long-term—of staying active.

The Wellbeing Boost

The sense of accomplishment and wellbeing that comes from finishing a workout—even a short one—goes beyond the physical. I often see my clients surprise themselves with how much better they feel after pushing through that initial resistance. Regular exercise, especially on days when you feel too busy, brings a boost in energy levels, better sleep, improved mood, and greater resilience to stress.

It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it. That’s why the only bad workout is the one that didn’t happen.

So, the next time you’re tempted to skip out, remember that the sense of wellbeing you’ll get from completing that workout is more valuable than the comfort of staying on the sofa. Let’s make it happen together.