Staying Motivated During a Pandemic

In this period of fear and uncertainty, many of us are finding it difficult to remain positive or motivated to stick to our health and fitness goals.

Although you can no longer go to the gym, attend an exercise class, or play an organised sport, it doesn’t mean you should give up on your fitness routine. It is just as important during this time to stay motivated for your health and mental wellbeing.

Reasons to move

• It is recommended that we get at least 30 minutes of physical activity five times a week to stay healthy. Regular physical activity supports:
• Weight control – regular physical activity increases your metabolism and helps burn calories more efficiently
• Blood sugar balance – regular physical activity reduces risk of diabetes and it can help those with diabetes control their blood sugar
• More energy and less stress – regular physical activity reduces anxiety and depression
• Heart health – regular physical activity increases HDLs (good cholesterol) and helps your heart pump more effectively and efficiently
• Blood pressure – regular physical activity can help control high blood pressure

How can you motivate yourself to stick with your goals?

• Create a 10 minute morning stretching, strengthening, or walking routine before breakfast
• People who exercise first thing in the morning are more likely to stick with it
• Find a walking partner (remember, you can only exercise outside with 1 other person that’s not part of your immediate household)
• Make a personal or family commitment to try a fun new activity each week
• Try an online yoga or aerobics class – there are also many at-home workout programs available online
• Think wellness, not weightloss
• Limit but don’t eliminate – this can sometimes make you crave them more!
• Forget the goal of ‘perfect’ – it is ok to have a moment of weakness.
• Acknowledge it and get straight back up again
• Add regular household chores such as cleaning or gardening to your “exercise” regime – this also burns calories!

This insight is brought to you by our RISE Health & Lifestyle program, which takes a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. Supported by a broad range of activities, menu choices and resources, RISE Health & Lifestyle was designed by Cater Care to help educate, motivate and encourage as many of our remote site workers as possible towards their goal of a healthy body and a healthy mind.