Making a resolution to exercise more and get fit is one thing, but sticking to the plan can be difficult. It can be hard to stay motivated, particularly as the weather gets colder during the winter months. We’ve listed some basic reminders to help you stay active and exercise, even when the weather makes it difficult.

  • Make it enjoyable. Pick an activity (or range of activities) that appeals to you, since you’re more likely to keep to an exercise plan if you like it.
  • Choose activities that suit your lifestyle. Consider your budget, physical abilities and the amount of free time you have.
  • Check out local exercise options. Opportunities to be active in your neighbourhood may include leisure centres, sports clubs, parks, walking trails, swimming pools or exercise classes.
  • Make exercise a social event. Find a friend or family member to be active with so you can motivate and reward each other. Joining a local fitness club or class can be a good way to make friends and interact with others in the community too.
  • Plan ahead for bad weather. If you’re planning to exercise outdoors, having a back-up plan in case it rains will reduce the chances of missing out on exercise altogether. Back-up plan ideas include heading to your local swimming pool or gym to exercise indoors, or even finding an indoor basketball court to exercise at.
  • Keep some exercise equipment at home. Options include aerobics DVDs, stationary bike, skipping rope, fitness ball or even a basic yoga mat.
  • Have fun getting physical. Go dancing, fly a kite, do adult gymnastics, yoga, throw a frisbee or swim in the sea – you’re not limited to sports and structured exercise programs.
  • Get active around the house. Housework, washing the dog and gardening are all physical activities that burn calories and help keep you fit.
  • Look for incidental ways to move your body every day. For example, walk or cycle to the local shops instead of driving the car. Use the stairs instead of the lift or escalator.
  • Involve the whole family in keeping fit. Arrange for outings that are physically active such as walking the dog, rowing, hiking, rock climbing and dancing.

If you’re looking for further ideas relating to physical activity, VicHealth has a range of health and wellbeing information.

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