How to stay motivated to
exercise when you have anxiety Just because something is good for us, doesn’t make it easy to do – especially when anxiety puts up roadblocks. Here are seven simple steps to help maintain that motivation...
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xercise is hugely beneficial to our mental health, but when you struggle with anxiety or depression, finding the motivation to get active can be a challenge. It can leave you zapped of energy and drive, making it feel impossible to get out of bed in the morning – let alone go for a jog.
Writing | Lydia Smith Illustrating | Rosan Magar
Most of us will have skipped the gym to spend time on the sofa at some point. But for those with a mental health problem, low motivation, fatigue, and loss of interest in activities, are prominent symptoms. “I definitely do find it difficult,” says Freddie Cocker, founder and editor-in-chief of the mental health platform Vent. “Normally when I’ve come home from a tough day at work, or it’s in the bleak winter and I have to train on my own.” Given the importance of that mind-connection, here are a few ideas to help maintain motivation, and make exercising a little easier.
EXERCISE WITH SOMEONE ELSE
Getting a friend to join you for a walk, run, or class can really help boost motivation, as it makes exercise seem like less of a chore – and far less overwhelming. “If you have a friend to train with, you can motivate each other to train harder than you would do on your own,” says Freddie. “When you exercise with someone else, you can catch-up, chat about life, hobbies, and interests, with exercise fitted around it.”
GET INTO A ROUTINE
Fitting exercise into your routine, such as after lunch, is a good way to incorporate physical activity into your day without it seeming daunting. “Routine is a really good way of motivating the mind,”
