1. Set yourself a goal and write it down. By putting pen to paper of you want to achieve will help you reach your target and you’ll feel good about how you’re progressing meaning you’re more likely to continue. Make sure you keep the goals realistic!
2. If you’re looking to try something new, take it at a manageable pace. The old saying of ‘don’t run before you can walk’ rings true for a lot of things so start small and build it up.
3. Mix up your training programme. Doing the same thing over and over will get boring very quickly so do something different each time you train.
4. Do what you enjoy. Forcing yourself to do an exercise you really don’t like is not going to keep you going. There are loads of training options so you can always leave the odd thing out.
5. Exercise gives you endorphins so the enjoyment factor will actually help keep you motivated.
6. Don’t sweat the small stuff! If you can’t get down the gym or have to miss out on a run or bike ride, don’t worry about it. You can easily bring in small amounts of exercise into your day like taking the stairs, doing a quick lap round the block when you grab lunch and even that will help you feel energised.
7. Do it for yourself and for your own reasons. This is very important as your goals and expectations need to be driven by you.
8. Don’t be afraid if you aren’t the best straight off. Being good at anything takes time and dedication.
9. Reward yourself. If you reach a milestone no matter how big or how small, take the time to celebrate as you’ve accomplished what you set out to do.
fitness inspiration
Phillip was speaking to AXA, whose Live Boldly campaign encourages the nation to take up hobbies. Research conducted by AXA has revealed that the nation takes inspiration from ‘sporting greatness’, with events such as the London Marathon encouraging one in five Brits to take up a sport.
A fifth (20%) of people have taken up a hobby off the back of watching a sporting event, with running (44%), football (14%) and cycling (12%) being the most popular pastime sports.
Olympic Gold medallist, Philip Hindes MBE, is supporting a campaign by AXA Insurance to encourage the nation to Live Boldly and take up new and interesting hobbies. Find out more at axa.co.uk/liveboldly
