You know that exercise is good for you, but maybe you haven’t quite yet managed to get moving? The break is a perfect time to get started, as you’ve usually got more time up your sleeve. Use that time to identify your why, try stuff out and then make a plan that will fit with your uni schedule. Here are three top tips to help you start your exercise journey and keep it up!
- Identify your why
Whether your goal is to improve your physical or mental health, boost productivity, feel more energetic or just generally feel better, it’s important to know your why! How will achieving that goal improve your daily life?
For example, on the surface, doing dancer pose might get you an ace pic for the gram, but actually, being able to do dancer pose without strain probably means you’re in great physical health – strong but flexible back, legs, core and upper body – which means you’re probably not in any pain, which means you’re not carrying extra stress on your body, which means you can participate in lots of fun stuff with friends, which means you do anything you want to do that brings you joy!
2. Try stuff out
We don’t know what we don’t know. Ok sure, if you’re claustrophobic or don’t like the dark, caving is probably a wise one to avoid! But, look for elements of things you like in new activities, and just give them a go. Like any skill, it takes practice to get better, so just give yourself a goal of trying swimming, yoga or HIIT30 at least 3x each, before you write it off. If you give it a good nudge, and you still don’t come away from it with a smile on your face from the endorphins, then it’s probably not the right ‘fit’ for you.
3. Make a plan
If you fail to plan, you plan to fail! Amongst all your trial and error, you’ll eventually find things you do like. You’re more likely to stick to the plan, if it’s things you enjoy. So, once you’ve found your thing, write it down! Schedule (and treat) your exercise like an appointment in your calendar, that you cannot miss.
Still need help? Book in for a free 15min chat with one of our exercise consultants. Bookings via the Rec&Sport app.
Ngā mihi
Te Ratonga Hākinakina | UC Rec&Sport