The Best Place to Look for Exercise Advice

When working toward a healthier weight, "fitspiration" can be a common place to start. We often start with things like signing up for a gym, looking for a great trainer, and following the inspiring fitness experts on Instagram . . . But I wonder, is this the right place to be looking for advice or support?

Consider who you take exercise advice from

The truth is that many people who are fitness experts are also fitness enthusiasts. Consider the idea that people who are active in midlife tend to stay active, and might even increase their activity level in the later stages of life. People who are sedentary, however, tend to stay that way throughout life.¹

Among people who are more sedentary, some may become less active later in life, while some may become slightly more active. However, even those who become slightly more active do not reach the same high level of activity as the people who were always active.¹

It is not all or nothing when it comes to fitness

Of course, I am referring to averages. And averages do not always apply to individuals. So before I continue, I will say that if you aspire to become extremely fit and athletic (or maybe you already are) and want to spend your time and attention on that, more power to you. It will certainly benefit you.

But I would like to point out that it does not have to be the default status quo. Sometimes you have other priorities in life, and sometimes those other priorities aren’t even much of a choice. So if you are intimidated by the idea of becoming super-fit or receiving exercise advice from certain fitness experts, you are not alone.

And you will be delighted to know that even a slight increase in activity later in life for people who start out as sedentary in midlife can have protective benefits. Doing so is associated with a reduced risk of death from all causes, including heart-related deaths. What this means is that all-or-nothing thinking when it comes to fitness is not necessary.¹

Find advice that aligns with your goals

These data tell us that even modest changes in activity habits can have a meaningful effect on your health and your life. If you do not aspire to become extremely fit, you may not benefit much by getting advice from someone who is extremely fit. Instead, find an activity and a group of people that support you in the version of activity that fits into your priorities and life.

This way, you can approach physical activity in a way that is manageable. But you also can be confident that it is worth the investment and it will have a positive impact on your health and your life. Do not be shamed into all-or-nothing approaches to fitness. Be smart, be yourself, and live your life on your terms.