
From wrist gadgets to gym memberships, if you’re looking to up your activity levels for a healthier lifestyle, there are plenty of options available that could float your fitness boat.
But how do you choose the one that’s right for you? Three people who’ve embraced one healthy living option tell us why. Writing for LV= life insurance, fitness writer Laura Williams talks to three people who caught the fitness bug in different ways, and personal trainers (PTs) about the pros and cons of each.
‘When I first used my tracker, I found it difficult to meet my steps target. But gradually my walking increased and now I tend to exceed my step goal. I frequently opt for walking over driving to get more steps recorded, and I take real pleasure in finding new walking routes,’ says Christine Griffin, 64, a retired teacher, mum of three and grandmother of three.
Personal trainer and fitness writer Linda Melone agrees: ‘Seeing those steps add up and the accompanying calorie burn provides a sense of progress.’
As does PT and group fitness instructor Hannah Lewin: ‘Wearable tech can be a great way to draw attention to your activity levels (or lack thereof!)’
‘Wearables can be an easy and effective way to monitor your activity levels, and 'gamify' exercise. I find the best devices are the ones that assist in determining benchmarks, setting goals and then encouraging activity with a social element,’ adds Dave Thomas, fitness journalist and co-founder of inclusive group training gyms The Foundry.
But beware of the pitfalls, warns Linda: ‘The downside is if it becomes obsessive, which I've seen with some people walking around their bed at night time in order to meet a step goal!’
Third Space City personal trainer Ayden Isaac-George also has reservations: ‘Your smart watch isn’t going to motivate you through that last set, correct your form, or hold you accountable for turning up to the gym on a cold evening.’
Instead, you could think about hiring someone to help motivate you.
It often doesn't occur to me to drive any more - my choice is to walk
If you told me at 50 I'd be much fitter at 60, I wouldn't have believed it
‘I’m 57 years young and I use the gym twice a week,’ says artist Doug Taylor. ‘Apart from the fact that it keeps me fit and helps me manage my weight, it also keeps my mind active. I enjoy working out with other people, so it’s a nice sociable option for me. And I’m that rare breed that actually likes the cardio machines – I really enjoy a stint on the cross trainer and treadmill! I find that going to the gym definitely helps with improving my self-esteem, and my sense of wellbeing in general.’
‘Once you're in a regular gym habit, it becomes second nature and no longer an internal debate,’ says Linda. ‘This is the ultimate goal for anyone striving to be in better shape: wake up, work out, rinse and repeat. Regular workouts become their own motivation.’
Ayden agrees: ‘Routine gives you an anchor, has a knock-on effect in our life and also frees up time.’
But his endorsement comes with a warning.
‘In spite of all the benefits of physical activity, it’s important to remember that physical activity should enhance your life, not become it.’
Going to the gym boost my self esteem