Looking after your Mental Health is just as important as looking after your physical health. While exercise cannot solve every problem, moving your body regularly can be a useful part of a healthy routine. In fact, even a short walk or simple workout can give you a break from a busy day.

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The good news is that you do not need to be extremely fit or spend hours in the gym. Instead, small and regular changes can help you build a routine that supports both your body and your Mental Health.

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Here are seven simple ways to get started.

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1. Start With Something You Enjoy

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Exercise should not feel like a punishment. Therefore, start with an activity that you actually enjoy.

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You could walk, cycle, swim, lift weights or join a group fitness class. You might also enjoy playing a sport or simply spending more time outdoors.

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The most important thing is finding something you are happy to do again. After all, an activity you enjoy is much easier to make part of your routine.

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2. Keep Your First Workout Simple

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When you are starting out, there is no need to do everything at once. In fact, trying to change too much can make exercise feel harder than it needs to be.

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Instead, start with a short workout that matches your current fitness level. For example, you could spend 20 minutes walking on a treadmill, using the bike or doing a few basic strength exercises.

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As you become more comfortable, you can slowly increase the time or intensity. As a result, exercise can become a regular part of your week without feeling overwhelming.

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3. Use Exercise as a Break

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Modern life can be busy. Work, family, social plans and everyday responsibilities can all take up your time. Because of this, it can be difficult to switch off.

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Exercise can give you a chance to step away from your usual routine. Even a short walk can give you time to clear your head and focus on something different.

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For example, if you have had a long day, try going for a walk before heading home. Alternatively, a short gym session can help you create a clear break between work and the rest of your evening.

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4. Make Exercise Part of Your Routine

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It is often easier to stay active when exercise becomes a habit. Therefore, try linking your workout to something you already do.

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For example, you could go to the gym straight after work or take a walk after dinner. Over time, this can make exercise feel like a normal part of your day rather than another task on your list.

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You can also read The Power of Habit Stacking: How to Make Your Fitness Stick for more ideas on building exercise into your routine.

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Remember, you do not need a perfect routine. Instead, focus on creating something that you can realistically keep doing.

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5. Exercise With Other People

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Exercise does not always have to be something you do alone. In fact, being active with other people can make your workouts more enjoyable.

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You could join a fitness class, train with a friend or simply walk with someone. As well as getting you moving, this gives you an opportunity to spend time with other people.

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Social connection can be an important part of looking after your Mental Health. So, if you find it difficult to stay motivated alone, invite someone to join you.

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For more ideas, read Better Together: How Social Fitness Boosts Your Motivation.

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6. Do Not Worry About Being Perfect

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It is easy to think that exercise only counts if you have completed a hard workout. However, that is not the case.

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Some days you may have plenty of energy. On other days, a gentle walk or shorter session might be all you can manage. Either way, getting some movement is still useful.

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Therefore, try not to compare your routine with someone else's. Focus on what feels achievable for you today. Over time, those smaller efforts can add up.

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7. Give Yourself Time

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Finally, remember that building a healthier routine takes time.

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You may not notice a big difference after one workout. However, regular exercise can become one of several habits that support your overall wellbeing.

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Start small, stay patient and give yourself room to adjust. If you miss a workout, simply get back to your routine when you can.

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Most importantly, remember that exercise is only one part of looking after your Mental Health. If you are struggling with your mental health, talking to someone you trust or seeking support from a qualified professional can also be an important step.

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Make Exercise Part of Your Week

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Exercise does not have to be complicated. A short walk, a gym session or a group class can all be a good place to start.

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Therefore, choose something you enjoy, keep your first steps simple and build your routine slowly. You might find that becoming more active helps you feel better physically while also giving you time to reset mentally.

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Ready to Get Started?

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Visit your local Fitness4Less cand find a way to make exercise part of your week.

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FIND YOUR LOCAL FITNESS4LESS

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