Keep Moving

How to stay motivated

Building regular activity into your daily routine is vital for your overall health and well being.

But sometimes we find that although we start off well, it’s easy to be overcome by the day to day business of life.

 

For the past 25 years I’ve tried to run regularly, say three times a week. I only run against myself, so I don’t have to be too competitive. It keeps me in shape and clears my mind as well. I try and fit in a work-out at the gym...oh, and a bit of travelling round the world every few months! Michael Palin, broadcaster

 

 

Here’s how to overcome some common setbacks:

I’ve not been feeling well

Build up slowly again. Start off by doing five minutes of moderate activity three times a day and build back up to 30 minutes a day over a number of weeks.

It’s too much effort

Maybe you’ve set yourself some unrealistic goals? Set some short-term goals and reward yourself if you achieve them. Remind yourself that keeping active will have enormous benefits to your health and quality of life as you get older.

Family or work commitments keep getting in the way

Try and find everyday activities you can easily incorporate into a busy day. Get off the bus a few stops early, walk rather than drive to work, use the stairs or walk around while you’re talking on the phone.

I’m not enjoying it by myself

Invite a friend to join you or join a local group or club. Try another activity. Or get motivated by taking part in a BHF event and raise money for our pioneering work.

Any questions?

If you have specific questions on heart health you can talk to an information officer from the comfort of your own home on our Heart Information Line 08450 70 80 70.
Lines are open Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm.

See also:

Making exercise fun

Getting active gives Brian a new zest for life

Join a BHF event

Useful organisations