Marking the end of summer, September brings a good opportunity to kickstart a healthier lifestyle. Regular activity and movement can help individuals of all ages to steadily increase their fitness levels and health. Whether you're looking to boost your energy, shed some pounds or simply improve your overall well-being, this month offers a fantastic avenue to embark on a journey to better health.
The Importance of Movement
Modern lifestyles have brought about an alarming increase in sedentary behaviour. Long hours spent sitting at desks, commuting, and engaging with screens have contributed to a range of health issues, from obesity to cardiovascular problems. As such, it has never been more important to incorporate physical activity into our daily routines to maintain a healthy body and mind. Regular exercise has been linked to a myriad of benefits, including weight management, improved cardiovascular health, enhanced mood, reduced stress, and increased cognitive function.
Tips to Help You Start Moving More
Set Realistic Goals: Begin by setting achievable goals. Whether it's walking a certain number of steps each day, trying a new fitness class, or increasing your daily active time, setting goals will give you something to strive for and help track your progress.
Variety is Key: Keep things interesting by diversifying your activities. From hiking and dancing to swimming and playing a sport, there are countless ways to move your body. Experimenting with different activities can help you find what you truly enjoy.
Buddy Up: Invite friends, family, or colleagues to join you. Exercising with others can boost motivation, making it more likely for you to stick to your commitment.
Make It a Habit: Dr. Maxwell Maltz (1960) found from research that it can only take about 21 days to form a habit. By dedicating yourself to daily movement throughout September, you'll be well on your way to making exercise an integral part of your routine.
Track Your Progress: Use the myBVI app or API to help you track the difference activity is making to your body measurements, composition and health risk. Unlike the numbers on the scale, which may actually increase during this time due to gained muscle mass, BVI can accurately tell you the direct impact this has had on your health.
Prioritise Consistency Over Intensity: You don't need to run a marathon or complete an intense workout every day. Consistency matters more than intensity. Even short bursts of activity can contribute to your overall health.
Mindful Movement: Incorporate mindfulness into your movement routine. Activities like yoga and tai chi not only engage your body but also promote mental clarity and relaxation.
Conclusion
September presents a golden opportunity to prioritise your health and well-being. By dedicating a month to increased physical activity, you'll be making a positive investment in your future self. Remember that the journey to a healthier lifestyle is not about perfection, but about progress. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll in the park or trying your hand at a new sport, every activity counts. So, let this September inspire you to move more; your body and mind will thank you for it!
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