Are You Sedentary? What Has Stopped You From Prioritizing Health and Fitness Or Physical Activity in Your Life?

Don’t feel bad! We’ve all been sedentary at some point in our lives and most of us may be sedentary now. What does sedentary even mean though? Sedentary refers to a lifestyle with little physical activity or movement. Essentially, the terms applies to those who sit or are lie down for most of their day. As humans we are not designed for this. By nature we are nomads!

The problem with a sedentary lifestyle is the health risk it brings from a lack of exercise which can contribute to health issues such as obesity, cardiovascular disease and musculoskeletal problems.

Below are some common barriers to fitness we've all encountered. Do any apply to you?

• “I have no time or too many obligations. My family, kids or job takes too much of my time!” While these are important obligations, you need to prioritize your health and fitness to do these efficiently. How can you be a good family member, parent or worker if you aren’t healthy?

• “I can’t get my 10,000 steps in per day. My neighborhood is not walkable or it isn’t safe to walk. I don’t have much green space around me.” Try doing a Google search for local tracks or parks near you that are family friendly. A safe hiking trail is also a good place to get some steps and cardio in. We can also help you find affordable used cardio equipment on Facebook Marketplace or on Amazon.

• “I have anxiety or feel self-conscious when I go to gym.” Workout from home and wear your most comfortable workout clothes! There’s no judgment in the comfort of your home. If you need help, we can get you started!

• “I have a chronic illness or past injury. I’m nervous about working out.” First step is to speak to your primary care provider and see what they recommend or what guidance they can give you to kickstart your journey. Fitness with Dinach will work with you and your provider to ensure your safe and comfortable.

Fitness with Dinach can help you overcome many of these barriers by leveraging where you are (at home) with what you have (existing workout equipment). We can help you source what you need as well! You don’t need that much equipment. Trust me!

Here are some tips anyone can use whether your home or at the office.

• Take a walk at some point during the day whether you are in the office or not. Make a call and catch up with a friend or family member or you can even listen to your favorite podcast or audiobook.

• Avoid forward head posture aka Text Neck, a common condition amongst corporate or office workers who sit in front of the computer all day. Correcting this condition does not happen overnight but a commitment to exercise and stretching can help overtime.

• Do you have Plantar Fasciitis? As you’re sitting during the day whether it’s at your desk or helping your children with their homework or while you watch TV, roll a tennis ball under your feet and get some relief.

• Stretch as much as you can, even for a few minutes before and after work or even during your lunch break.

• No child care? Go for a walk with your kids or workout while they are doing their homework or watching TV. If you have a pet, go for a long walk with your favorite podcast or audiobook (with safe volume levels of course).

• Are you a new parent? Do a quick workout during your baby’s nap breaks or get some reps in as you do other household chores. Fold laundry and squats? Time is of the essence so get creative as much as you can!

It’s Not Too Late To Continue Your New Year Resolution!

Still unsure if Fitness Coaching is right for you? Check out our FAQs to learn more about what it is, why it works and how it can help you meet your wellbeing and fitness goals.

Hope these tips can get you started on your fitness & physical activity journey. Thanks for reading!

Dinach