Kiwis spring into action as summer approaches

28 October 2015

New study reveals Kiwis spring into action as summer approaches

New research has revealed that we can expect a surge in the number of Kiwis exercising now that summer is on its way. Nearly two-thirds (64%) of New Zealanders admitted they find it harder to exercise during the colder, darker winter months.

The survey, released by Sovereign which honed in on the health habits and trends of New Zealanders found that during winter, more than half (51%) of Kiwis report a drop in their fitness regime.

Sovereign Healthy Living ambassador and wellbeing expert, Nicola Smith, says there’s a logical link between increased daylight and its impact on exercise regimes.

“The seasonal change is the perfect time to embrace the longer daylight hours and get back on track with exercise goals that may have been lost or forgotten during winter. Exercise is a vital part of a balanced healthy lifestyle and there are a range of associated health benefits,” says Smith.

The report shows that 64% of respondents listed getting fit as one of their main goals for the year, with 41% wanting to take up a physical activity. However, more than a quarter (26%) of Kiwis said health and wellbeing becomes less of a priority during the winter months and more than 4 in 10 (44%) eat less healthily.

Smith adds, “Exercising outdoors before or after work is a great way to get some fresh air into the system and is also a chance to grab your daily intake of Vitamin D, which we are often deprived of during the winter months.”

Smith’s top tips for how you can make the most of the extra daylight hours include:

- Create a motivational playlist for your workout. Music is a powerful tool to support the body through exercise; it encourages you to move by giving you a rhythm to step to and by putting you in the right mood for exercise. It also functions as a positive distraction, taking your mind off the physical strain or exhaustion you might be feeling.

- Organise yourself. Planning is vital to stay on track with your exercise regime. Simple tricks such as putting your exercise gear beside your bed the night before will make it easier to get up and out the door early the next morning.

- Set short and long term exercise goals. In the lead up to summer consider signing up for an entry level Tri or Duathlon, like the Sovereign Tri Series events starting in November. An early morning swim, cycle or jog is a great way to start building up your fitness and the longer daylight hours will make it much easier.

Sovereign undertook the research to hone in on the health habits and trends of New Zealanders. As a leading New Zealand life insurer Sovereign has been taking care of Kiwis for the past 25 years and believes it has a key role to play in helping New Zealanders improve their health and wellbeing.

ENDS

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