How to cope with unexpected events
Unexpected events can have a tremendous impact on both your motivation and your stress level. Being aware of different types of unexpected events and how to perceive a potentially stressful situation as a new opportunity can help.
Here are some tips for coping with unexpected events:
- Remember that unexpected events can arise at any time and disrupt your exercise routine. Have a backup plan ready for when interruptions occur. Make a date in your diary for your next available exercise session.
- If your day is packed with events, consider getting up 30 minutes earlier for a walk or workout.
- Look for opportunities to exercise during your everyday routine – for example, walk to the train station instead of driving, take the stairs instead of the lift, or take a walk at lunchtime.
- Always have a good variety of exercises ready. Have an indoor routine ready if the weather makes you want to go back to bed. Always have some exercises on hand that you can do anywhere.
Here is a list of common unexpected events and how to incorporate exercise into your life despite them:
Injury: With an injury, you will most likely need to set new goals for the short term. Make recovery, not exercise, your first priority. Gentle exercise like walking, mobilisation or swimming may be possible. Follow the guidance of your health care team for how to keep fit while recovering.
Holiday: Take advantage of the local facilities. Some hotels have swimming pools, tennis courts or gyms. If you’re holidaying at the beach, take a daily swim. Tour on foot – walking is one of the best ways to see the sights and is a great aerobic and weight-bearing exercise.
Business commitments: Exercise at your desk. Perform mobilisation exercises and regularly change your position. Take a break from your desk and walk the stairs every now and then. If you move more, you sit less and generally feel better.
Bad weather: Adapt your routine or brave the elements. Head to your local swimming pool or gym, or do at-home exercises, such as exercise videos. There are lots of great exercise apps available featuring indoor exercises.