Being active doesn’t have to mean taking out an expensive gym membership, jogging at 5am or sporting lycra. There are so many ways to be active and they can all help to improve your mental health.
Taking part in physical activities can be a great way to meet people. They can also offer us the chance of taking a well-deserved break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
A few benefits of exercise are:
-less tension, stress and mental fatigue
-a natural energy boost
-improved sleep
-a sense of achievement
-focus in life and motivation
-less anger or frustration
-a healthy appetite
-better social life
-having fun
Leading an active life can help to improve your feelings of self-worth and foster confidence. Taking part in a form of exercise that you really enjoy can give you a goal to aim for and a sense of purpose.
Method
Aim to do 30 minutes of moderate exercise five times a week. It may sound like a lot, but it isn’t as daunting as it first appears. 'Moderate exercise' means being energetic enough that you:
-breathe a little heavier than normal, but aren’t out of breath
-feel warmer, but don’t end up hot and sweaty
You don’t have to jump in a the deep end. Build up slowly, at a pace that suits you. You might like to do 30 minutes per day, or you may prefer two split your time into two 15 minute sessions - it's entirely up to you!
Getting started
- Make time
Work out what time you have available
Choose something that fits into your busy schedule
Alternatively, re-jig commitments to make room for some physical activity
- Be practical
Will you need support from friends and family?
Will your active lifestyle have an impact on others in your life?
Are there any costs involved, if so, what you can do to make it affordable?
- Which activity works for you?
Is there a particular part of your body you want to exercise?
Do you need to be more physically active at home?
Do you want a change of scene?
Would you like a structured activity that someone else has organised?
Making exercise part of daily life
Adopting a more active lifestyle can be as simple as listening to motivational music while doing the housework, or making small changes to your routine. Here are a few suggestions:
- At home
Walk the children or grandchildren to school, then jog home
Push the mower with extra vigour
Get an exercise DVD – and use it!
Speed up the housework – vac harder and faster till you’re warm
Put on some music for a ten minute dance
Apply some real elbow grease when cleaning the car
When you do get a break, go for a swim
Results
Keep up the good work
Keep an exercise record As well as noting what you do, record how you feel. It can be a good way to remember the ups. Work out how you’ll avoid repeating the downs.
Set goals
Setting goals to measure progress might motivate you, such as:
Use a cycle computer – look to improve your average speed
Push in an extra stomach crunch at circuit training
Use a pedometer to measure how far you walk each day
Swim an extra length
Discussion
Met your original goal? Create and meet a new one If your original motivation was to complete a challenge, like a fun run or a sponsored mountain climb, set your sights on a new event. You could join a new running club or rambling group. Perhaps there is a cause you’d like to fundraise for? There’s always a challenge out there if you’re willing to accept it.