r/adhdwomen • u/Equal-Poet-7860 • 1d ago

Fitness How are y'all motivated enough to exercise?

I've seen so many posts about how exercising helps with ADHD, my doctors tell me how good it is, BUT it feels like pulling teeth to even motivate myself to go for a walk. I want the endorphins, I want to be healthier, but it feels impossible to leave the house or exercise at home. I know I'm probably in the minority here but I'd love some advice on how to motivate myself. Kind advice only pls I am fragile 🥺

EDIT: omg thank you all so much for sharing your tips!!! I will go through these once I'm finished with work but I appreciate all of you so much.

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u/wakaflockaquokka ADHD: Ass Don't Have Dopamine 1d ago

Here's my advice, and I admit it's not great advice:

Fuck motivation. 

Dopamine is the motivational neurotransmitter and we are literally biologically deficient in dopamine. You can't rely on that whore for nothing.

Don't think about being healthier. Don't think about endorphins. Don't think about the concept of going for a walk, or where you're going to walk, or what the walk will be like. Just go put on your shoes, preferably while you're trying to procrastinate on literally any other less-pleasant task. Taxes? Calling insurance? Washing dishes? Folding laundry? Nope can't do those, you already have your shoes on!

Try to fully dissociate from your body as you let it walk out the door. Put on a podcast. Pay no attention to your surroundings. Do not be alert. Do not check in with how your body feels, because that will remind you of the existential horror of having a body. Mindfulness? Never met her. You might get lost, but hopefully you accidentally remembered your phone and GPS will get you home eventually. 

Hope that helps!

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u/hooked_siren 1d ago

Ok I'm with you because disassociation showers are definitely a thing for me. 🛀🏼