Not having enough time is a common reason people give for not exercising. For many expats, this may be the case as heavy workloads and long hours mean free time is at a premium.
Expats face other unique challenges when it comes to developing a fitness routine. Finding time to exercise can be particularly difficult if you have just started an assignment or moved country. Adapting to the change in surroundings, starting a new role and building new relationships is mentally and physically challenging. Add to that factors that are unique to expats like:
Climate: moving from a temperate climate to a hot or cold climate making your morning run much less appealing.
Culture: exercising in public may not be part of the culture in your expat destination. Or the need for appropriate attire may make exercising more difficult.
Food: a change in food can impact your energy levels.
Or like many of us, maybe your new year's resolution to exercise more has just fallen by the wayside.
The benefits of regular physical activity cannot be overstated. According to the Mayo Clinic making exercise part of your daily routine will help:
- Manage your weight
- Improve medical conditions
- Reduce expat stress
- Improve sleep quality
Not making the time to look after our physical health is already having an impact on the world’s population. Statistics from the World Health Organisation show the level of obesity globally has tripled since 1976. Obesity is linked to a number of other serious illnesses including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and some common cancers.
Although your time may be limited there is lots you can do to incorporate an exercise routine into your life. Some tips for expats are: