Wellbeing
Is more exercise always better for you?
CAITLYN HUTH looks at how we can all find the right balance to reach our movement goals.
Experiencing progress can certainly bring a lot of excitement, but does that mean more is always better?
It can be! Putting in a little extra effort can yield impressive results, especially as we become more accustomed to facing new challenges.
If you’re feeling positive about the early stages of your recovery, this approach might suit you well.
Embracing new exercises and pushing yourself a bit further can lead to breakthroughs that enhance your overall performance and wellbeing.
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that balance is key.
As we introduce more exercise into our routines, our bodies need adequate time to recover and adjust to these new demands.
This recovery process is crucial for building our physical and mental capacity.
If we bypass this important step and continue to increase our workload without giving our bodies the necessary time to recuperate, we could face issues down the line.
Sometimes, doing more can lead to too much, causing the body to experience excessive stress and inflammation that it can’t manage. This can result in fatigue, injury or even burnout, which can set back our progress significantly.
It’s vital to listen to your body and recognise the signs that indicate when you need to slow down. Remember, recovery can often lead to greater progress.
Allowing your body the time it needs to heal and adapt can actually create a stronger foundation for future achievements. Constantly pushing for more doesn’t always yield long-term benefits.
Instead, focus on a balanced approach that incorporates adequate rest and recovery, allowing your body to acclimate to the new demands.
If you feel the motivation and want to keep momentum with movement while also being mindful of overloading the body, try opting for gentle activities or activities of leisure or enrichment. This could include doing some stretching, swimming or slow walking.
This could also include playing with your grandchildren, attending to your garden or engaging in another somewhat active hobby that you enjoy.
This strategy will help you build resilience and strength, paving the way for sustained progress in your fitness journey.
Caitlyn Huth is an exercise physiologist at Full Circle Wellness. Call 5456 1599 or visit fullcirclewellness.com.au
