Did you know that behind many healthy and physically fit men there may be a nagging woman?
OK. Laugh all you want. But a new study from the University of Lincoln in England reports that inactive men are more likely to turn to exercise if nagged by their significant others to lead a healthier lifestyle. An earlier study from Surrey University also showed that both men and women are more likely to exercise regularly if urged by their partners.There are several conclusions that can be drawn from this research:
1. That many of us need encouragement to start exercising – whether it’s nagging or gentle persuasion, and
2. That support from people around us, be it our spouses, family, or friends, is very important in achieving our Beaufort health and fitness goals.
This is equally true for both genders. Of course, we need to remember that encouraging others to get fit and healthy – which encompasses physical activity and healthy diet – will probably backfire if you don’t follow your own advice.
To inspire people around you to exercise and eat well, you must set an example yourself, according to Beaufort personal trainers and experts. You can nag all you want, but if you sit on a couch all day and snack on junk food, nobody will take you seriously. You know the old saying about people who live in glass houses… If you lead a healthy lifestyle, then by all means – try to persuade your family and friends to do the same. At EarthFIT, we suggest points of view to motivate people around you to start an exercise program:
- Give a good reason: Let them know what specific benefits they can expect if they exercise. For example, if your partner or friend is overweight, tell them how physical activity will help him or her burn off calories and fat. Remember to give them reasons that are personal, not just general and generic arguments that are not relevant to their lives.
- Be a positive example: Talk about how exercise has improved your own life and health; be specific about the beneficial changes, be it Beaufort weight loss, strength, endurance, flexibility, or general conditioning.
- Share your enthusiasm: It is possible that inactive people don’t work out because they think exercise is boring and/or hard. Let them know that it certainly doesn’t have to be that way. An exercise or Beaufort fitness program can – and should – be enjoyable and adapted to each person’s level. This is where a Beaufort personal trainer at EarthFIT can be a big help.
- Be a workout buddy: Offer to exercise with your friend or significant other, so you can offer your support and encouragement. If you train at a different intensity than a novice, a Beaufort fitness coach can devise specific routines to match your individual levels.
Ian Hart is a Body-Mind Transformation expert, the creator of EarthFIT Training Systems, co-creator of BACK PAIN RELIEF4LIFE, and founder of BEAUFORTPERSONALTRAINING.COM and MYBACKPAINCOACH.COM. Ian and his team help people get into optimal shape in the safest, fastest and most effective way possible, using cutting edge science.