The best form of exercise is one that is joyful, sustainable, and practically fits into your lifestyle and around your commitments. If you haven’t found your ‘thing’ yet, then you are right at the fun trial and error phase. Make a date with exercise and try all types. Pilates, yogalates, boxing, swimming, stand up paddle boarding, hiking - the list is endless and it doesn’t have to look like a gym class. Exercise does not need to be intense to be effective, and any movement will benefit your overall health and wellbeing. It’s just about getting started.
Getting our bodies moving regularly is a lot like starting a new job. It takes time for your mind and body to adapt to everything, and the beginning can often feel daunting. The best way to start from scratch is by setting some easy goals and making them specific, measurable, attainable, repeatable, and timely. These types of goals will allow you longevity and help you avoid any disappointment in your progress. Look, we can’t all expect to bend it like beckham after a few days of casual running.
Once you’ve found an exercise or form of movement you enjoy, it’s important to introduce more of this progressively to avoid overuse injuries. When it comes to injuries, try to incorporate some form of resistance training - it’s great for increasing bone density and reducing chances of injuries. That said, listen to your body, take it slow when you need to and ramp it up when you can. Each week will look a little different and that’s normal and more than okay if you need to recover. Listen to your body and remember to stretch and fuel your body with nutrition - because whatever you put in is what you’ll get out.
Until you’re feeling more confident in your regular exercise routine, why not grab a friend to join you on the journey? And if you’re finding it hard to rope someone in, group training is a great way to stay motivated and accountable. You may get lucky and find a community you vibe with. Time investing in yourself is one that will always bring a return you can cash in on, particularly when it comes to movement. If you need more convincing, check out our blog on the benefits of exercising.
~This blog was informed by a certified Strength & Conditioning Coach, but should be treated as general advice only. For personalised exercise & fitness advice, please refer to a professional that understands your physicality and medical history.
