How to: Move even when you don’t want to
Movement is good for your mental health. You know it. We know it. Simple. Except when it’s not. So how do you get the motivation to get some exercise or movement into your day when it’s literally the last thing you want to do?
We asked you lot your top tips. And they’re pretty good.
If you’re feeling like a slug with minus 100 desire to move, or you’re so busy that finding time to head to a gym is a no no, we got you. Getting more movement into your life doesn’t have to mean becoming an athlete. Anything is better than nothing. 5 star jumps while the kettle boils. Standing on one leg while brushing your teeth. Walking the kids to school. Managing to make the bed for the first time this week. Celebrate your wins where you can.
When you’re not in the mood for movement any reason to stay in bed is a good reason. So whether you’re planning on a walk round the block or a swim after work, remove any barriers you might come up against. Pack the goggles, plan your route, remember a pre workout snack - because if it’s easy, you’re more likely to get moving.
Nothing is more demotivating than telling yourself you’re going to run full pelt for an hour and then having to stop after exactly 34 seconds. Same goes for deciding you’ll be heading to the gym 7 days a week but only managing it for a fortnight. The key to getting movement into your life is starting small, making your goals achievable, and fitting things into your everyday routine.
And the great thing about making your goals achievable? You’re more likely to meet and even exceed them. And who doesn’t love smashing their targets?
You might be one of those lucky people that feel endorphins and feel-good highs as soon as you break a sweat. But if you’re not, don’t worry. It’s ok not to love every minute. Focus on how your brain will feel after you’ve danced, shaked and moved - here’s betting it’ll be worth it.
Having someone else to get active with can help if you’re feeling demotivated or need a confidence boost to get started. Movement and exercise are great ways to socialise with old and new friends. Win win.
Whether it’s catching up on a dog walk with your bestie, or starting group tennis lessons to make some new mates while having fun, moving with other people is a great way to bring more movement into your routine.
Sometimes having something to aim for can give you that extra boost to get moving. And - we’ve got loads of great events for you to sign up to - from hikes and runs to cycling and ultramarathons. And, if that’s not your cup of tea you could create your own challenge. We’ve seen it all - from dance-athons to carrying a fridge up a mountain. So go on. Give it a go. Surprise us.
Sometimes it can feel like exercise has to be gruelling. We’re here to tell you that’s not true. In fact, if you find something you love, you’re way more likely to stick it out and make it part of your everyday life. So get raving, jiu jitsu-ing, trampolining or pogo-sticking - there’s no right way to move. And there’s no limit to what you can try. Even a ten minute brisk walk can make a difference to how your mind and body feel.
A huge theme in your tips and advice was the great outdoors. So many of you said getting out in the open was the key to unlocking movement and exercise in your lives. And you can’t get much better than that.
It is the UK though, so pack a rain mac, wear some comfy shoes and get yourself to your local park, beach, nature reserve, or, let’s be honest, down to the local shop for a treat. Getting outside in the fresh air for even 5 minus can have a massively positive impact on your head.
Another top tip from our CALM community was choosing the tunes. Whether it’s digging out a throwback album, curating a next level playlist, or plugging into a podcast - finding the right thing to put into your earholes can be a massive motivator.
Look, movement’s great. But so is resting and giving yourself the time you need. If movement doesn’t feel possible right now, that’s ok too.
Talking about exercise and movement can feel like it comes with a side order of shame. And that’s not on. Your ability to move and your motivation to move are not linked to your worth.
