08/06/2026
As we know, exercise is one of the singularly most important things that we can do for our health.
But which exercise is best?
Evidence based research recommends a mixture of cardio, strength and stability to keep us in tip top condition, so I always ask my clients what kinds of movement gives them joy?
It is no good putting in place a gym routine with running and HiiT workouts if that does not make you happy, equally our bodies can sometimes prefer different exercises at different times of the month (Men and Women!) So to implement a plan that sets people up to fail is definitely not my idea of being a good coach.
What we do instead is, we first look at things they may have done when they were young that they enjoyed, that could be swimming, roller skating, or dancing. We then look at what time they have, their general fitness starting point and what they want to achieve.
We then make a plan, start small (then go smaller) The easier it is to do something the more likely it is that we will do it. Those little consistent habits start to become routine and our brains start to release happy hormones that keep us incentivised, and then we increase it.
Remember action before motivation!
The key thing is to get a combination of the three main types of exercise in, and consistency means adapting your workouts to how you are feeling. If you don't feel like lifting heavy things, do some gentle yoga or Tai Chi, if you are feeling social join a club for the social side and motivation, if you are feeling like a challenge set yourself a charity run or swim.
There is no right or wrong, just keep moving for as many hours as you can, even if you just do some stretching at your desk.
If you are looking to start getting to grips with doing more movement, I would love to see how Health Coaching could help.
