My Health Coach: A Personalized Approach to Exercise

When it comes to our health, change can be hard. It is rarely as simple as “I just need to do it.” Personalizing the approach, aligning with where you are on the journey, can make a difference. It is helpful to consider individual circumstances, beliefs, and interests when exploring aspects of our health that we want to change or improve. The same is true for exercise, and My Health Coach is here to help. 

The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend the following exercise for adults: 

• 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity, or a combination of both, preferably spread throughout the week 

AND 

• Moderate- to high-intensity muscle strengthening activity, such as resistance or weights, on at least 2 days per week 

The way to get there can look different for everyone. Let’s explore some things to consider. 

Where are you on your exercise journey?  It is first important to consider where you are at right now with exercise. Have you already been exercising regularly? Maybe you are planning to start exercising soon. Are you just starting to think about what exercise could look like for you? Maybe it is hard to even picture yourself exercising.  

Start your journey where you are. My Health Coach is here to help you explore that. By tailoring your approach to fit you today, you will likely be more successful in reaching your goals.  

• If you have already been exercising, it could be time to find ways to keep it fun or work through challenges that have interrupted your routine. 
• If you are thinking about starting to exercise soon, it may help to work through the details by setting a SMART goal. Having a goal that is Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely could help to set you up for a successful start.  
• If you are thinking about exercising but not ready to act on it just yet, exploring your thoughts around exercise and talking through what is hard about getting started could move you forward.  
• If it is hard to picture yourself exercising, it may be beneficial to explore the whys.  

What is an activity that lights you up? No matter where you are on your exercise journey, it can be helpful to think about what brings you joy in life. Sometimes hobbies and activities can provide a source of movement, and this can count for exercise. Activities that are enjoyable also tend to be more sustainable too. Some examples of activities include the following: 

• Taking a dance class with a friend 
• Working in the garden 
• Going for a hike 
• Swimming at the beach 
• Using a VR headset or interactive video game that gets you moving 
• Jumping rope 
• Playing golf with friends 

Finding exercise that brings joy can positively impact your health and wellbeing. 

My Health Coach is here to help you get to where you want to be, in a way that is right for YOU! No matter where you are on your exercise journey, it can help to work with a Health Coach. My Health Coach takes a personalized approach, getting to know you and your story first and then helping you to come up with a plan that best suits you. My Health Coach is here to partner with you on your exercise journey so you can do it!   

Princeton University provides FREE Health Coaching to benefits-eligible employees and dependents. Call 866-237-0973 to schedule a free, confidential appointment to help you reach your health goals.