Have you lost interest in your exercise programme?
Maybe you’re tired and sore from too many workouts, or maybe life just got the better of you and you just can’t figure out how to fit it all in. It’s tough, especially during lockdown.
However, before you stop reading and reach for your fat pants, remember that exercise is the closest thing we have to a miracle drug. It’s wide ranging benefits include heart health, lower cancer risk and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression. Plus, it keeps the kilos off!
But, there’s a catch. You need to get – and keep – moving if you want to cash in on the benefits. Let’s face it, it’s easy to talk yourself out of exercising, especially during this period. Half of people who start a new exercise regime ditch it within the first year because they simply can’t keep up the boot camp they’ve forced on themselves. So, if what you’re doing is not working, it’s time to find something that will.
So, how do you stay in the game? Make it easier. Flip your focus and find something that you like. Challenge yourself. Yup, mix it up. Think about it - what do you find more motivating? Doing something that you’ve done a hundred times before or something that will stretch your abilities? Do you have to love it? No. The secret is to open your mind to try something new. Home exercises, or maybe something with a more mind or body connection, like Pilates or yoga, could be an option. Thing is, variety and new experiences will keep you motivated and coming back for more.
Keep it real. Although at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on most days of the week is recommended, even 5 or 10 minutes of moving around will still give you benefits. Did you know that if you stand, pace, and tap your toes often, you can burn up to 350 calories a day!
Have a game plan. Put it on paper. “Fail to plan, plan to fail”, right? Keep a fitness journal and write down what you aim to accomplish, whether it’s a 20-minute online workout or a quick yoga session. Knowing your goals makes them easier to achieve. However, give your body the time it needs to respond to your efforts. It can be weeks, often months before changes start to show.
Inspire a friend to join in the fun, or get your family behind you. Knowing you’ll get a treat for a job well done, is a great motivator. You deserve it!
If you’re feeling a little demotivated at the moment, don’t assume that the only choice for exercise is the dreaded treadmill. You don’t have to train hard-core to live a healthy, happy life. You just need to keep going.
Now that you’ve regained your enthusiasm, keep moving!
Source: experiencelife.com, jillianharris.com, shape.com, self.com, healthline.com, multiplesclerosis.com, webmd.com, verywellfit.com
DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.
