Do what you enjoy
Find activities that you enjoy. If you find you don’t enjoy walking or jogging try something else instead, like dancing or swimming. Don’t think you have to find one activity and stick to it, try sampling different activities or sports until you find something you like, and if you become bored of it, move onto something else. Being active shouldn’t be a chore. Make it fun – you’re more likely to stick with it if you enjoy it.
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Be active with others
A great way of finding the motivation to be active is to schedule in time with a friend, family member or colleague for physical activity. This can help make the activity something to look forward to. Try going for a walk with a friend or loved one, or have an active day out with your children.
Make physical activity part of your routine
Making physical activity part of your routine makes it more difficult to miss or forget. It can include scheduling time on certain days of the week to take part in a sport or attend and exercise class. Building activity into your daily routine can also include much simpler things like taking the stairs instead of the lift at work each day or walking to the shops instead of taking the car. Remember, it all adds up!
Join an exercise class or local group
Think about a sport or activity you would like to try out and look for clubs or classes in your area. Most leisure centres and gyms hold regular classes which, once you sign up, should help keep you motivated to keep the activity up. Some activity groups, particularly running and walking groups, can be free, such as our Walk Da Rock Shetland walking groups.
Set yourself goals and track your progress
Hitting your daily target will feel great! Using tracking apps can help, but even just a checklist on a piece of paper will do.
Get into a good habit
Habits can take a while to form. In order to make a lasting habit it’s best to keep it simple, start small and build it into your routine. For example, this could be doing some stretches or have a dance-off during TV ad breaks or while the kettle’s boiling. Adding cues to your environment can also help such as laying your trainers and water bottle in a visible place or setting a reminder (you could use the alarm or timer on your phone) to get up and move every 30 minutes during the day.
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