For many in our community being fit and strong is something that we may have the capacity for (in theory) but potentially we might not have the resources to achieve.
I’m talking about financial resources of course, but there are also other things to consider that we might not have thought of.
Undertaking anything new and sustained that requires effort and commitment needs us to have access to whole range of things including social and family support, stable mental and physical health, emotional resilience, time, and access to appropriate service options.
- You may be financially able to support regular fitness or sport but face mental or emotional barriers to to taking that first step or sustaining your effort.
- Alternatively, you may be in good health otherwise, but are isolated from services or struggle with the social support and encouragement from others.
- You could be someone with a health condition or disability that needs to be catered for in a specific way.
- Maybe you just simply lack the time in your busy life (and you are tired!)
Most people know how important being fit and active is for their health but for some people, achieving that goal can feel further away for them than others. If you would like to be fitter and healthier and play a sport or get into a fitness activity, what is it that you need from a resource perspective? We all need to work on different aspects of our lives at times and there are some great services and options out there to help you:
Here are some ideas!
Motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and emotional resilience – Hiring a coach or a mental health professional to assist you to work through your barriers. Join a group or supervised fitness program for added encouragement and personal development.
Social support – Enlisting the support of a friend or family member or chat to your peers at work about improving your fitness together.
Financial barriers – Joining a free fitness program (Fitness in the Park) or join Park Run. Or just do an audit of your budget and consider where you can save some dollars to put towards you and your health.
Time constraints – Consider your schedule and mark out between 1 and 3 x 30–45-minute spots each week that you could reserve each week for yourself (even 1 session a week is a good start). Single mums and dads (or just parents in general) fall into this category often… we see you ????
Physical health barriers – Hire someone who is trained to work in a fitness setting with people who experience a different range of health conditions. An exercise physiologist, or a highly experienced personal trainer can assist here.
Access to services – Look for opportunities in your local area or simply start a walking program in your local neighbourhood.
Living with a disability – The NDIS supports Australians to design their own support program and allocates funds towards enhancing your life. Consider adding in a fitness program to your NDIS plan.
I know there is more that I haven’t thought of so feel free to add some ideas in the comments!
I promise you your life will improve in so many ways when you feel fitter and stronger, it is so worth it.
And finally, if you are currently able to be regularly active, take a moment now to be grateful for all the resources you have access to allow this to happen.
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