Beyond the wagon: Time to shift our perspective on physical activity

I don’t have a wagon, please stop telling me I have fallen off it.

As we approach September, a month notorious for gym membership sign-ups and wellness programs, the air is filled with messages urging us to "get back on the wagon." But for those of us with busy lives and a load of responsibilities, the notion of having fallen off a figurative wagon is not only frustrating but also misleading. 

We need to reevaluate the language we use and the perspectives we hold about physical activity, recognising that there isn’t a wagon to cling to but a lifestyle to embrace.

The phrase "falling off the wagon" finds its roots in the US prohibition era, where it referred to abstaining from alcohol. Today, it's used to guilt-trip individuals into rejoining the fitness frenzy, as if motivation alone were the barrier between us and a fitter self. 

This perspective assumes that we've slipped into a state of inertia, akin to addiction. But the reality is far more nuanced.

For most of us, it's not lack of motivation that keeps us from moving; it's the realities of our lives. Juggling a full-time job and tending to a young family is no small feat. The narrative that portrays physical activity as a chore does little justice to the complexities of our everyday life. Signing up for a 6-week challenge might offer a temporary boost, but sustainable change requires a different approach.

If we're going to embrace movement as a part of our lives, it needs to be enjoyable, fulfilling, and integrated into our routines. 

Here are a few ideas that challenge the conventional the wagon metaphor:

1. Varied Daily Movement: Instead of viewing movement as a separate task, seek ways to integrate it into your daily life. Take 10-minute walks during breaks, stand while working, or opt for walking meetings. Choose routes with obstacles and opt for longer paths. By aligning movement with your routine, it becomes a part of your day.

2. Social Engagement: Research highlights the importance of social connections for longevity. Find a group activity that resonates with you – whether it's dancing, cycling, or rowing. Regular and meaningful social interactions can transform exercise from a solitary chore to a shared experience.

3. Embrace Skill Development: Progression is key to sustained enthusiasm. Challenge yourself with new skills that gradually improve your abilities. Perhaps there's a tough walking route or a dance move that initially seems impossible. These challenges create a sense of accomplishment and allow more activities to become available to you. Within the WildStrong context, this could be learning how to jump higher or lift heavier.

Movements should complement our lives, not subtract from them. 

So, as September approaches, let's step away from the wagon and find something that ignites us.