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.

  • Choose activities that suit your lifestyle. Consider your budget, physical abilities and the amount of free time you have.
  • 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.
  • 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.

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