Help a Loved One Get More Active: Quick Tips

Lots of people have trouble getting enough physical activity. If someone you care about is having a hard time getting active, you can help. Here are some tips to get you started.

Suggest activities you can do together.

• Start small — try taking a walk together after dinner twice a week or doing push-ups during commercials while you watch TV
• Mix it up — find different ways to move, like dancing one day or doing balance exercises another day
• Try something new — take a fitness class together or play a sport you’re both interested in trying

Make it part of your regular routine.

• Meet up at the local park or recreation center on your way home from work
• Wake up a bit earlier so you can go for a brisk walk together before breakfast
• Pick a certain time for physical activity, like right after watching an episode of your favorite TV show
• If you can, ride bikes or walk to nearby places instead of driving or taking the bus

Take time to understand the situation.

Keep in mind that your loved one may have reasons for not being more active. For example, maybe they feel overwhelmed or embarrassed. Ask them what’s making it difficult to get physical activity — then talk about what you can do to be supportive.

Recognize your loved one’s efforts.

• Be patient — change takes time.
• Remember, any amount of physical activity is better than none!
• Offer encouragement and praise — you can say: “Great job getting a walk in today!”
• Point out positive choices — you can say: “I’m glad we’re walking to the park instead of driving.”