Level up your life: Why you need an exercise goal (even if you think you hate working out)

Let’s face it, exercise isn’t always the most thrilling activity for everyone. But before you resign yourself to a life on the couch, consider the power of setting an exercise goal. It might just be the key to unlocking a healthier, happier you.

Here’s why having an exercise goal in your sights is a recipe for success:

1. Motivation Magic: Goals give you something to work towards, a reason to lace up your shoes even when you’d rather hit the snooze button. They provide a sense of purpose and direction, keeping you focused on the long-term benefits rather than the momentary discomfort.

2. Progress, Not Perfection: Setting a goal allows you to track your progress. Witnessing your own improvement, no matter how small, is a powerful motivator. Did you walk an extra kilometre this week? Celebrate! Every step counts towards reaching your ultimate objective.

3. The Confidence Boost: Achieving your goals, big or small, is a surefire way to boost your confidence. It shows you what you’re capable of, fostering a sense of accomplishment and self-belief that spills over into other areas of your life.

4. It’s Not Just Physical: Exercise isn’t just about building biceps. It’s a fantastic way to improve your mood, reduce stress, and boost your mental well-being. Setting a goal helps you prioritize this essential aspect of your health, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

5. Find Your Fun: Remember, exercise doesn’t have to be a chore. Explore different activities until you find something you enjoy. Whether it’s dancing in your living room, swimming laps, or exploring nature on a hike, there’s an exercise out there waiting to become your favourite hobby.

Ready to get started?

  • Start small and specific. Don’t aim to run a marathon next week if you haven’t jogged in years. Begin with a manageable goal, like walking for 30 minutes three times a week.  But if you are interested in a half-marathon or 10km goal, why not join our social Run Canterbury crew?  We’ll guide you to your goal safely.  Our next intake starts March 11th!  
  • Find an accountability buddy. Share your goals with a friend who can support and encourage you on your journey.  It’s harder to not show up when you’re depending on each other.  
  • Celebrate your wins! Acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small. This will keep you motivated and focused on the bigger picture. 

Remember, the most important goal is to get moving and find what works for you.  The RecCentre has a huge range of activities, so register today (if you haven’t already!), download the app, and start exploring.   There are workouts in the app, virtual classes, or you can book in for a Discovery session to try things out in a small and encouraging environment.   Set your sights on a healthier you and get ready to experience the transformative power of exercise!

Ngā mihi 
Te Ratonga Hākinakina | UC Rec&Sport 

Major works impacting traffic and parking on Ilam Road

As part of the continued Christchurch City Council Nor’west Arc Cycleway project, major work is taking place around the Ilam Rd/Maidstone Rd/Creyke Rd intersection between 9 January and 31 May 2024.

The working area is Ilam Road between Memorial Avenue and University Drive

 

Impact to traffic on Ilam Road:

  • Traffic will be southbound only on Ilam Road from the intersection heading towards Riccarton Road
  • Traffic will be northbound only on Ilam Road from the intersection heading towards Memorial Avenue
  • The intersection traffic lights will not be operating during this period (they are being upgraded as part of the project)
  • Traffic will still be able to travel east and west through the intersection along Creyke Road and Maidstone Road

 

Accessing Science Road and University Drive:

  • Vehicles exiting Science Road or University Drive can travel southbound only heading towards Riccarton Road
  • Traffic management will finish just north of University Drive/Ilam Road entrance. Access to University Drive and the UCSA car park is from both directions, however vehicles exiting can travel southbound only heading towards Riccarton Road

 

Impact to parking:

  • All free on-street parking on Ilam Road between the intersection and Memorial Avenue will be unavailable between 9 January and 31 May
 

For more information, please contact Facilities Management by emailing FMAssist@canterbury.ac.nz

Electrical outages weekend of 20-21 January

Please be advised that there are two electrical outages planned for Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 January 2024 on Ilam Campus.

For those in affected buildings, Facilities Management recommend that you:

  • Turn off IT equipment in preparation for these outages
  • Ensure any uninterrupted power supply (UPS) equipment is operating correctly
  • Plan to shut down and reset any specialist equipment

 

Outage 1 – Ernest Rutherford – West wing only – 20-21 January

Ernest Rutherford West wing will be without power for two days from 7am 20 January 2024 to 7pm 21 January 2024.

This will enable contractors to complete alterations to the main switchboard for the Ground Source Heat Pump Project (GSHP).

This outage will affect Ernest Rutherford West wing only.

 

Outage 2 – Multiple buildings – 20 January

Power will be shut down across multiple buildings from 7am-9.30am on 20 January 2024.

This will allow for essential annual testing and maintenance, to ensure that UC’s electrical infrastructure is resilient in the event of wider network outages.

The following buildings will be without power:

  • Alice Candy
  • Angus Tait
  • School of Psychology, Speech, and Hearing
  • Beatrice Tinsley
  • Biology Glasshouses
  • Central Lecture Theatres
  • Elsie Locke
  • Ernest Rutherford [east and west]
  • Fine Arts 1,2, 3 & 4
  • Forestry
  • ICT Building
  • James Logie
  • Jane Soons
  • Julius Von Haast
  • Karl Popper
  • Library Warehouse
  • Matariki
  • McMillan Brown Library
  • Meremere
  • Music
  • North Arts Lecture Theatres
  • Okeover
  • Psychology Lab
  • Puaka-James Hight inc. Undercroft
  • Rehua
  • School of Biological Sciences | Te Kura Pūtaiao Koiora
  • School of Psychology, Speech, and Hearing
  • South Arts Lecture Theatres
  • Te Ao Mārama
  • University Bookshop

Facilities Management electricians and our external contractors will be onsite during this period to attend to any significant infrastructure issues. Equipment requiring any specialist shut down or reset due to this outage needs to be coordinated by appropriate Faculty or Service Department staff.

For more information, please contact Facilities Management by emailing FMAssist@canterbury.ac.nz.

Ngā Mihi,  

Te Ratonga Whakahaere Paenga | Facilities Management