The last week of May is Exercise Right Week. Could your patients use a little extra help with technique and motivation?
Although I like to think I’m growing older and (somewhat) wiser each year, there is plenty of stuff that I am still no expert in.
Take make-up for example.
You would think a female in her mid 30’s would, by now, know what skin type she has, which products to buy, and how to use them. And shouldn’t I also be having fun with the whole thing?
Instead, my twenties were spent trying many (wrong) shades of foundation, figuring out how to apply blush and wondering how to get mascara to actually stay on and not smudge. And honestly, up until recently I would say I was still pretty clueless about the whole thing.
Long story short, TikTok has helped get me access to plenty of amazing individuals who know a lot about doing make up “right”. The joy! The confidence! Not to mention the time and money I am now saving as I feel like I’m finally on the right track.
Now, when it comes to navigating the world of fitness and exercise, I suspect that for many people it must feel similar to how clueless I previously felt about make-up.
- What type do I need?
- How much do I need to do?
- What stuff do I need?
- How do I do it efficiently?
- How do I make sure I’m doing it “right”?
Is it any wonder that many in our community might feel like it’s all a little much? Especially when you throw a chronic condition or two into the mix, and a genuine fear of making things worse.
Exercise Right Week is an annual awareness campaign run by Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) and held in the last week of May (22-28 May this year). It started in 2014 and aims to highlight the benefits of exercise for health and wellbeing, and help people get the right advice based on their individual needs.
So, as we roll into Exercise Right Week this year, consider those in our community who might really value getting the “right advice” when it comes to safely moving their body.
Yes, seeing an appropriate allied health professional might have an upfront cost, but more often than not, tailored guidance and treatment from a professional can save plenty of time, money and pain down the track.
Asking patients about their physical activity levels is a good place to start. Are they able to do all that they desire? Do they know where to go if they have questions or need some more motivation or guidance?
Making links with local accredited exercise physiologists is one step further (you can find exercise physiologists near you by searching here: essa.org.au/find-aep/)
Knowing that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t always work for our patients, is there any harm in helping them access the right advice, sooner?
Happy Exercise Right Week!
And in case you are after a little nudge and extra motivation yourself, you are welcome to join our virtual exercise classes for a week – for free!
Head here to join in Pilates, Yoga, Strength and Balance Classes from anywhere: bjchealth.com.au/exercise-anywhere-free-trial-offer
Sarah Comensoli is an accredited exercise physiologist and certified strength and conditioning coach. She is based in Sydney and works at BJC Health.
