There are so many health and fitness myths out there, it's hard to know where to start! But, in my next series of columns, I'll try to debunk a few of these for you and give you the motivation to re-start your wellness journey.

The first myth to tackle is the misconception that if you're skinny, you're fit and healthy. Culturally, we tend to celebrate ‘not being over-weight'.

Our collective thinking that thinner is better in both men & women, whether achieved through diet and exercise or due to genetics, can often leave many of us unmotivated when we don't see the numbers on the scale reduce following exercise.

While we might not be able to influence society, we can try to change our own thinking. The truth is physical decline as we age is linked to a lack of physical activity no matter what your size. So, it's important to keep moving for overall health and wellbeing. It's less about the number on the scale and more about how you feel that matters!

Recently we have seen an increase of people joining Clubfit because of Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is when bones lose density and become brittle. Usually caused when oestrogen for women, testosterone for men and/or calcium is low, along with an inactive lifestyle.

Regular strength training, with cardiovascular exercise to help balance hormones and manage inflammation, sprinkled with a good dose of flexibility focused activity will keep your body on the right track. If this sounds daunting and you're not sure where to start – email me. I'd be happy to talk you through how easy it is to find an exercise plan that will help you feel better, the looking better will be a bonus!

Joanna Melbourne

joanna.melbourne@bayvenues.co.nz