Written by Deborah Ellul
Physical activity incorporates a range of physical movement which necessitates energy
expenditure. Any activity that gets your body to move and elevates your heart rate can be
considered as such. This physical exertion ultimately enhances many health-related matters,
including the improvement of one’s mental health and reducing the chances of risk for
developing chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart diseases and so on.
Be that as it may, today’s lifestyle has altered in a drastic way, carrying with it a lack of time
for people to try to integrate a fraction of some physical activity. Furthermore, some
occupations require us to lead a sedentary lifestyle due to the recent advances in
technologies, further decreasing the incentive of exercise and any benefits that come with
it. However, finding the time to accomplish this goal on a daily basis is far from
unachievable, but prior to its commencement one might require a good mental preparation.
This is an essential aspect due to the close correlation between the body and the mind, and
mental readiness could be a great asset.
One way of commencing this way of living can be through –
- Making a goal – When one plans a realistic goal that can acclimate to their lifestyle,
motivation will start to arise and create a more organised way of leading the day.
This first goal does not have to include big steps, but just the right amount so that it
can be achievable. An example could be taking a brisk walk for 30 minutes a day.
Then the intensity and length can be modified as one goes along. - Choosing the right activity – Demotivation usually starts when a person is pursuing
something which is not of their likeness, and this unfortunately applies to exercise as
well. It is vital to experiment with what works best and to find that specific activity to
look forward to when you wake up. If for instance walking is not functional enough,
try other activities like swimming or dancing. - Find a companion – When an activity involves more then one person it becomes
even more fun and feasible. Additionally, physical activity can be a great time to
catch up with a friend or with your family. Hiking or riding a bike through a valley for
instance can undoubtedly make the process even more enjoyable. - Utilizing Technology – We are fortunate enough to have technology to assist us in
keeping track of our daily advancement through distinct applications and fitness
trackers. These additional tools may support a person to not only stay on top of their
progress but even maintain the motivation and accountability.
Apart from the above mentioned, physical activity is very versatile and the more one gets
creative with it, the more enjoyable it will become. Taking advantage of opportunities that
may present themselves during the day can also help, as sometimes a scheduled workout
cannot always be attainable. On such hectic days by simply climbing the stairs instead of
using an elevator is already a step forward. It is also vital to switch to different exercises
from time to time. Performing repetitive workouts can be tedious and monotonous if done
periodically and can lessen the engagement even more.
Therefore, incorporating physical activity into our day – to – day routine can for sure make a
change for the better. Motivation at times might fluctuate and lessen but that is not a
reason to stop. It is always prominent to listen to what your body is telling you as on some
days you might feel like doing a less intense activity. But if one remembers to do a little
every day a change in both mental and physical health can surely be noted!
