Your Top 5 Exercise Excuses -- Busted!

3. "I Was Injured So I..."

Embraced Change

Before Elizabeth Braveman, 30, a nutrition educator from Denver, broke her wrist, she focused on strength-training her upper body. The injury forced Elizabeth to consider new options, including using lower-body weight machines and the stairclimber at the gym. "I looked at it as an opportunity to try a more well-rounded routine. As a result, I'm in much better shape overall."

Sought a Friend's Help

"When I started working out again after my back surgery, I was really worried that I'd reinjure myself," says Kristy Lane-Glicksman, a 30-year-old nurse from Boulder, Colorado. To help boost her confidence and comfort level, Kristy works out with a friend. "She tells me if my form is off or if I'm favoring my injury. This way, I can adjust and stay safe."

Took It Slow

A knee injury made Dora Bank, a 31-year-old marketing manager from New York City, eager to return to her regular routine. "As soon as I felt better, I'd take a cycling class or go for a run. Then my knee would swell up and hurt for days. I finally realized I was slowing down my recovery and that I needed to be patient and let my body heal."