Today (13 May) marks the start of Mental Health awareness week 2024. The theme this year is movement and the benefits it has for our mental health and wellbeing. Movement and exercise is a passion of mine. It has positively changed my life, even through my time working as a fitness instructor.

When it comes to our mental health and wellbeing, exercise or movement is one of the best things we can do. Exercise releases positive endorphins and can also make us feel really good, both during and afterwards.  It can ease low mood, anxiety and depression. For me, it has the great impact in both the short term of giving me a boost, as well longer term effects.

When thinking of the term exercise, many of us might envision a workout, the gym or running. However, any movement can be beneficial. Finding a way to build movement into your life can help, this could be housework, gardening or DIY. You don’t have to hit the gym to benefit!

I personally love exercise. I love planning my workouts, trying new things and the muscle soreness after a great workout that tells me I’ve worked hard.

Not everyone is into exercising such as going to the gym – finding something fun and enjoyable is key. Keeping it fun is critical for me. I’ve tried many different sports and exercises, and I am grateful to gain experience over the years and keep me engaged in being active. I do personally love the gym and boxing.

I try not to set too many rigid goals for exercise, I like to keep it general – build intensity, try new things, and have fun. I no longer chase a specific goal such as I will run X distance – that works against the enjoyment factor for me. I do track my progress instead – I plan my workouts in advance with plenty of variety, and I log down what I have achieved. I love to see the progress I am making, without adding rigid goals. That works for me at least.

There is no one size fits all approach to keep someone engaged with exercise and movement.