A new report says physical health is something many Canadians are worried about.
The report says that one in four Canadians admit they’re not in good physical health. Almost 30 percent say they don’t workout at all. Amanda Stone, the owner of LiveFit in Bancroft, says “While a lot of people may admit that, many also aren’t always willing to take the steps to change that.”
One of the biggest factors in poor physical health, Stone says, “is lack of motivation.” She recommends getting a workout buddy that will hold you accountable to do the things you say you want to do. Another one that some people overlook, she says, “Is thinking of reasons to get fit, not just setting goals of losing weight.” She gave the examples of a grandparent wanting to stay fit so they can keep running around with their grand-kids, or someone who can’t afford the cost of prescription medication anymore.
Stone says, “The most important part of physical health is nutrition.” She thinks it’s more important than the physical part and, for some, harder to do. Cost and convenience is the main factor in poor nutrition. It’s easy to go through a fast food drive-through than it is to prepare your Lunch the night before. According to the report, one in five respondents admit they don’t regularly eat fresh food, while 23 percent frequently overeat to feel better.
Stone says, “If you want to improve your physical health, you need to start with what you eat. Plan what you’re eating for the week. Prepare what you can ahead of time so that if you’re in a rush, you don’t have as much to do.” She added, “Eating well makes you feel better. When you feel better, you’ll be more motivated to other things like workout.”