Thanks to technology, we’re more aware of our health than ever. Between 42km marathon challenges and hourly movement reminders, it’s easy to fall into negative thought patterns where we berate ourselves for taking a break or not going hard enough. So, how can we bring some balance back to our routine?
How to bring some balance back to your exercise routine
ARTICLE
1 March 2025
3 min read
3 min read
Constantly trying to work out if your workout is good enough? Here’s how to reframe your routine so you can move with joy, not stress.
The internet is primed for perfection
Between ‘everything I eat in a day’ content, protein-packed promos, and fitness challenges, we’ve never been more aware of and attuned to our health.
While it is healthy to take an active interest in our own wellbeing, it’s easy for this interest to turn obsessive. We can lose sight of the benefits a run or a stretch can bring to our lives, when we only focus on the performative outcomes they provide—like impressive stats or a slim waist—as opposed to the more holistic benefits of exercise: better health, mental clarity, strength to see and do the things we love, and so much more.
What our bodies really need
Health doesn’t have to be complicated. Studies prove that a holistic approach, like eating a varied diet, moving our bodies a few times a week, and getting a good night’s sleep is all we need to live a healthy, happy life. And sure, we can still strive to try new things and reach new fitness goals (hello Mother’s Day Classic 2025), but every workout needn’t be perfect, all-out or extreme; it can even be fun. It’s all about balance.
How to find a good balance
- Prioritise consistency over intensity: Regular, moderate exercise often has more lasting benefits than infrequent, intense workouts.
- Do things you enjoy: Finding some form of movement you enjoy can help you build a more healthy, sustainable relationship with exercise.
- Think holistically: Support your exercise routine by taking care of your whole body (diet, mental wellbeing, rest), to ensure you get the most from every rep.
- Rest. Not only do regular breaks give your body time to recover and repair, but they’re also a critical part of progress, burnout and injury prevention.
- Be kind. To yourself, your body and your mind. Apps like Calm and Headspace offer a range of mindful exercises that can help you practise self-compassion, gratitude and mental resilience.
We’re incredibly lucky to be able to move our bodies, but we need to be kind to them too, especially when we exercise. After all, it’s the small steps that count the most in the long run.
Staff Writer
Staff writers come from a range of backgrounds including health, wellbeing, music, tech, culture and the arts. They spend their time researching the latest data and trends in the health market to deliver up-to-date information, helping everyday Australians live healthier lives. This is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances.
Disclaimer:
Copyright © 2025 AIA Australia Limited (ABN 79 004 837 861 AFSL 230043). This is general information only, without taking into account factors like the objectives, financial situation, needs or personal circumstances of any individual and is not intended to be financial, legal, tax, medical, nutritional, health, fitness or other advice. The source information of the articles is current as of the date of publication and may be subject to change. While the information contained herein is believed to be accurate, AIA Australia expressly disclaims any and all liability for representations or warranties, expressed or implied, contained in, or for omissions from, the information.
Copyright © 2025 AIA Australia Limited (ABN 79 004 837 861 AFSL 230043). This is general information only, without taking into account factors like the objectives, financial situation, needs or personal circumstances of any individual and is not intended to be financial, legal, tax, medical, nutritional, health, fitness or other advice. The source information of the articles is current as of the date of publication and may be subject to change. While the information contained herein is believed to be accurate, AIA Australia expressly disclaims any and all liability for representations or warranties, expressed or implied, contained in, or for omissions from, the information.
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