ESSA urges not to give up on resolutions to get active

Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) is reminding Australians of the need to stick to New Year’s resolutions and to reverse the trend of the nation becoming more overweight and less active.

Findings released in the 2017/18 National Health Survey indicated that only 15% of 18 to 64 year olds meet the physical activity guidelines, and over two thirds (67%) of Australians are overweight or obese. With statistics like that, it comes as no surprise that just under half (47.3%) of all Australians have at least one chronic condition. 

Accredited Exercise Physiologist, Nardine Presland “being inactive has a significant negative impact on our health and well-being. Regular exercise not only helps to manage your weight and fitness, but it also decreases the risk of developing a range of chronic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers."

Despite knowing the benefits of exercise and having great intensions on 1st January, many people tend to fall off the wagon in the first few weeks of the year and let their plans to become more active fall by the wayside, with research showing that only 8% of people actually stick to their resolutions. 

“It can be hard to maintain motivation once you’re back to the daily grind, but making the time to stick to your exercise plan is one of the simplest ways to increase your energy levels, improve your mood and better your health.” 

Tips for sticking to your New Year’s resolution: 

1. Set realistic goals - Start by setting a series of realistic short and long-term goals. Make them achievable and relevant to you. 

2. Start slow - New to exercise? Start slow! If you go too hard, too fast, you’ll lose motivation quickly and increase your risk of injury. Commit to doing some exercise on most days, even if it’s just a short work, and then gradually increase the duration and intensity. 

3. Do something you like - If you hate it, you won’t do it. There are lots ways to be active and what works for one person won’t work for another. If you hate running, there’s no point pounding the pavement. Try swimming, go to a dance class or hit up a Pilates class. Mixing up your routine will help to keep you motivated. 

4. Get help from an expert - No matter how good your intensions, sometimes we all need a little help. It’s important to find the right expert for your needs. 

For more information go to www.exerciseright.com.au or to find an exercise professional visit www.essa.org.au/find-aep