How can I keep on track?

There are several ways to help you keep on track with your goal of being more active. Try these useful tips*:

Use reminders

place notes around your home (eg. on the front door or on the fridge) to help remind you to do some activity.
put your walking shoes near the door or in the car.

Get into a routine

plan your activity, both the time and the place.
make a regular time for physical activity in your diary or on your calendar. (eg. every Wednesday afternoon is tennis)

Be social

involve a friend, colleague, neighbour or relative in your activity routine – this will help keep you both motivated and committed.

Use a diary

write down your activity times and how you feel after doing something so you can refer back to it when you feel less motivated.
make an activity planner and put it on the fridge -you could use stickers or gold stars to mark off each time you are active.

Choose a role model

maybe someone close to you is regularly active and fit. Talk to them and use them as a role model to keep yourself going.

Vary your activity

change the time or the place you normally do your activity to help keep it interesting.
change the type of activity you do.

*from Brown WJ, Moorhead GE, & Marshall AL. (2004). Choose Health: Be Active. A physical activity guide for older Australians. Canberra: Australian Government Department of Veterans’ Affairs and Health and Ageing. Order your copy on phone 1800 500 853.

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