1) It’s all about location. Many studies have shown the benefits from outside exercise. The feeling of well-being is reported to be higher after training outdoors. A 2011 study shows that fresh air activity leads to less tension, stress and angry.
2) Going alone. Although some people enjoy the time alone during a workout, group activity has found to improve performance. A study of competitive rowers show that when working out as a group the athletes experienced less pain and fatigue. Group sessions provide connection, social contact and an element of competition.
3) Timing it right. Everyone has a preferred time of day to workout, and that’s all right, nobody knows their own rhythm than one’s self. There is a connection between sleep wake cycles and exercise. This can become more important with aging. Studies have shown late afternoon exercise contributes most to better sleep cycles.
The menstrual cycle influences hormonal levels, and during ovulation a woman’s muscles and joints can have more laxity. This can lead to higher risk for injury and less tolerance to impact.
4) Friendly fair-weather. When weather systems are changing many people, especially those with past injuries or arthritis can experience stiffer muscles and joints, often referred to rheumatism. Exercise in cold dry air can bring on asthma in otherwise healthy individuals. Furthermore in warm months exercise outdoors requires proper cool loose clothing, sun protection and hydration. A recent study indicated exercising with cooler hands, such as carrying an cooled water bottles or insulated ice packs resulted in higher work rate and lower blood pressure.
5) Illness and medications. If working out when under the weather consider dialing down the expectations; shorter, lighter workouts with proper rest and hydration. Taking medications can also affect your workout. Some medications for colds and allergies can cause drowsiness. Others can cause an increased heart rate and blood pressure, which also can decrease exercise tolerance.
6) As good as it gets. Sometimes an athlete is already in peak form, and is plateauing. Further exercise does not lead to further gains. At this time there is two questions to ask. Are you getting proper rest and recovery between workouts, for medium intensity workouts this is usually 36 to 48 hours? The other question to consider is it time to change your routine and introduce other elements to your training?
7) It’s in the past. A study out of Alberta has indicated past bad experiences with exercise during formation years can negatively affect your attitude about exercise in later years. This is best overcome by finding an encouraging and supportive group to joint for workouts.
Despite of all these issues, once in a while it’s simply just not a good exercise day. Every professional athlete has off days. Just shrug your shoulders, stay calm and exercise on.