We’ve all heard the advice: move more.
But if it were that simple, staying active wouldn’t be such a challenge.
The reality is that movement only works when it works for you. Physical activity means different things to different people. For some, it’s energising and enjoyable. For others, it feels uncomfortable, exhausting, or like another obligation. Understanding your personal relationship with movement is the key to making it sustainable.
Why motivation matters more than willpower
People stick with physical activity when it brings enjoyment or personal meaning, not when they rely on discipline alone. Exercise that feels like punishment rarely lasts. Exercise that feels rewarding often becomes a habit.
A helpful starting question is simple:
What does movement mean to you right now?
Common ways people experience movement
Most people relate to movement in one or more of these ways:
- Movement as joy
- You enjoy moving for its own sake—through challenge, mastery, competition, or shared experiences with others. The right activity leaves you feeling energised and capable.
- Movement as an investment
- Enjoyment may be limited, but you value movement for its long-term benefits: better health, less pain, and maintaining function. This mindset works best when paired with small, positive experiences that build confidence over time.
- Movement as a struggle
- For some, movement feels overwhelming due to fatigue, pain, or low fitness. Here, the focus is not performance but gentle, achievable movement that rebuilds trust in the body.
There is no “wrong” way to relate to movement—only a personal starting point.
Why generic exercise advice doesn’t work
Busy lives and sedentary routines make movement easy to deprioritise. When exercise doesn’t align with your motivation, energy, or values, it’s often the first habit to disappear. The most sustainable approach blends enjoyment now with purpose for future health.
How health coaching supports lasting change
As a health coach, my role isn’t to prescribe a one-size-fits-all plan. It’s to help you:
- Understand what truly motivates you
- Identify barriers that are holding you back
- Find movement that fits your life and body
- Build habits that feel doable and meaningful
When movement aligns with who you are, consistency becomes easier.
Ready to find your way of moving?
You don’t need more willpower – you need a personal approach to movement.
If you’re ready to move more without pressure or guilt, get in touch to explore health coaching and start building a movement habit that supports your long-term health and wellbeing.
