Fitting in fitness: The modern struggle to stay active

Many people are finding it harder than ever to squeeze exercise into their day. It’s a pattern that echoes across cultures, including Filipinos juggling work, family, and personal responsibilities.

Filipinos believe that exercise is a non-negotiable investment in one's well-being. Credit: Supplied

KEY POINTS

• According to a study from the University of Sydney, nearly 80% of Australians understand the value of staying active- but less than half can maintain a regular exercise routine.
• 70-year-old Filipina, Malou still makes it a point to exercise proving that staying active doesn’t stop with age. Architect Katrina and bank employee Maria Luz turned to exercise after experiencing health issues due to their sedentary jobs.
• According to fitness coach Mark Banta, one major reason we lose motivation is that we set our expectations too high as the demands of daily life get in the way. He adds that the key to staying consistent and making routine sustainable is by starting small.

Healthy Pinoy is SBS Filipino's weekly segment on health. The content provided is for informational purposes only and does not intend to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your GP or doctor for support.

We often get overwhelmed thinking about completing a full training program. Start small. Baby steps. That’s the key to staying consistent and making your routine sustainable.

Mark Banta- Fitness coach

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