Have You Kept Your Exercise Goals?

With three months of 2018 under our belts, Easter is a great time to reflect on our health and fitness goals we may have made for 2018. Have we kept them? Do we need to adjust? Do you need an extra hand from an accredited exercise professional?

With the Commonwealth Games taking over the Gold Coast and hitting our screens from April 4th, Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) is encouraging all Australians to embrace the spirit of the Games and use the Easter break as a way to keep their physical activity levels up and get active.

"It's never too late to start moving! The Easter long weekend is a great chance to kick start your exercise goals and enjoy the sunshine. Remember, a little bit is better than nothing," explained ESSA Chief Executive Officer, Anita Hobson-Powell.

Statistics tell us that nearly 70% of Australian adults are either sedentary or have low levels of physical activity, and two-thirds of children aren't undertaking the recommended 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Whilst a 'lack of time' is a key reason for not exercising, with the Easter break, you'll have some extra time up your sleeve.

"The Easter break is a great time to get together with family and friends, but to also keep up our physical activity to reduce the effects of those guilty pleasures we all indulge in this time of the year," added Ms Hobson-Powell.

On average, an Australian eats 4.5kg of chocolate every year at Easter time, with a 100g Easter egg taking roughly a 2-hour walk for women to burn off, and a 1.5-hour walk for men.

Although no one is suggesting you ditch the bunny and chocolate eggs, exercising over Easter will keep your body healthy during the break, as well as help to motivate you in to the colder season. "There's no need to rule out chocolate all together, but it's a good idea to monitor the chocolate bunny and eggs intake and to complement it with moderate exercise."

"Use the Commonwealth Games as inspiration and make sure you make an effort to get outside and enjoy the great weather, whilst also keeping active and healthy."

5 Eggs-ellent Easter Exercise Examples

Easter Egg Hunts
Whilst a cherished past-time for children, getting the young and old involved can ensure everyone is moving and active whilst searching from some chocolatey treats.

Bike Rides
Just grab your helmet and bike and off you go! A bike ride down to a local park or just around the neighbourhood is a great idea for you and the whole family.

Swimming
Before it starts to get too cold, make great use of the sunshine by heading down to your local beach or swimming pool. Swimming is also great for those with joint issues.

Easy Walks

Easter can be a busy time, so don't forget to take some time out from the chaos and chocolate and go for a casual walk or jog to get you, and everyone else, out of the house.

Hiking
Why not use your long weekend to head out to a local national park or mountain range for a hike. Hiking trails always range between beginner and experienced. Don't forget to wear the right shoes and take lots of water!