Last week I had a conversation with a potential client about personal training. Unfortunately their schedule did not align and we were unable to proceed.

Another person I met with decided to fully commit to exercise with a trainer and make it work within their busy schedule.

I believe that exercise is not optional, it is essential. Just like you get ahead in your career by keeping up with the latest in your field, you have to maintain your health by staying active. It is an essential part of having an enjoyable life.

I think the real stumbling block for most of us is that we approach exercise like we have a choice.

I think that making time for exercise should be on the list of things that are non-negotiable. You have to eat, sleep and pay bills in order to live. You also have to exercise.

Thinking about exercising daily can be a tough pill to swallow for some people. Many of us do not really enjoy doing it. However, the evidence is clear: regular exercise truly changes your overall being and improves so many aspects of your life. It is absurd to believe that your body can continue to be healthy and function optimally without it.

Exercise is not only about aesthetics and doing better in life. It is way deeper than that. Exercise increases our resilience to deal with challenging times. This was shown over and over again during the Covid-19 pandemic. Many of us picked up our movement throughout that time; I would see so many people on the road walking and running.

Exercising on a regular basis requires a shift mentally. First you must prioritise what is really important to you. Then pick the time and place, and tell yourself that your scheduled exercise is non-negotiable. And when you start thinking of skipping it, remind yourself that the life you desire cannot be achieved long-term if you do not work out.

Exercise is not a choice, it is essential! You got this!

Put yourself first and B-Active For Life!

• Betty Doyling is a certified fitness trainer and figure competitor with more than a decade of experience. Look for B. ActiveForLife on Facebook