Body check: How to get your body in top shape for spring

Shed those winter layers and embrace the warmer weather by introducing new elements to your exercise regime, perfect for fighting fatigue and helping you live a full, active life.

1. Try something new

If you’ve ever wanted to try rock climbing or boxing, now’s the time to sign up for a taster class. New exercise regimes could help motivate you and spark your interest in working out. If you’re unsure what to try, visit a gym and speak to a personal trainer for their advice.

2. Set yourself a schedule

Think you don’t have time to exercise? Think again! Exercise doesn’t need to be done in 30-minute or one-hour blocks. In fact, breaking up your exercise in 10-minute increments could work in your favour, as research shows that shorter bursts of exercise could be just as physically beneficial. Whether you do small amounts or your workouts in one hit, put them in your diary (and set a reminder!). Experts say that by scheduling your workouts, as you would a work or medical appointment, you’ll be more likely to stick to it.

3. Find a workout buddy

Stuck for motivation? Find a friend, or a fitness group, and synchronise your workouts. One study has found that finding a new exercise companion increased the amount of exercise people took. This was increased even more when the new partner was emotionally supportive. Because, let’s face it, you may not want to rise and shine for an early-morning run, but you’ll be more likely to show up if you know somebody else is relying on you to do so.

4. Indulge yourself

Setting yourself workout goals is all well and good, but what about setting yourself some rewards? An hour-long massage is something we’d all love, so why not gift yourself an indulgent treat after showing up for all your workout sessions for the month of August?

5. Boost your energy levels

If your energy levels need a boost, think about how to improve your levels of Ubiquinol. You can absorb Ubiquinol through the foods you eat, although as the recommended daily amount is 100 milligrams, you’ll need to eat large portions of cabbage, broccoli, oranges, oysters, and avocado to match the levels you’ll gain from a daily supplement. An active form of the naturally-occurring antioxidant Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), Ubiquinol is more easily absorbed in the body than CoQ10 and may help our body fight against ageing, fatigue, daily stresses, and even recover better, and more quickly from exercise.

Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional.

i https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/physical-activity-its-important ii https://www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2017/benefits-of-a-little-exercise-cs.html iii https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/10/161004081548.htm