This post is part two of a series explaining how and why Exertia exists. Read here for part one.

I suppose I’ve never considered exercise as something I have to do but rather as something that happened to me – the happy side-effect of a busy lifestyle. I always hoped I’d stay young and fit and lean forever by running around doing whatever it is I have to do. And I maintain (despite candid remarks) that I do maintain an active lifestyle, whether it’s fulfilling the many roles I have or running round after family.

But, much to my frustration, it’s becoming apparent that a healthy lifestyle and sufficient exercise isn’t just going to take care of itself.

So what to do? Well, in my case, start a business!

I’m really not interested in the gym – and believe me I have tried, but the only thing that changed was my bank balance. And I love swimming, but I don’t like getting wet, and I love walking – but sometimes it’s hard to get away, and taking the time to walk to the bank isn’t always convenient when you’ve got calls to take. And I love yoga, but it’s all very well being told to relax, switch off your busy thoughts and imagine yourself as a leaf floating on the breeze, but sometimes my overactive brain needs distracting, not calming.

We all need to do more to exercise and stay healthy. I’m sure every magazine we read contains some trick or snippet of advice on how to be happier, healthier and more comfortable with ourselves. The irony is, we only sit and read these magazines when we’re in the doctors waiting room.

But the pressure to find time to exercise isn’t helpful – if anything, it makes us feel worse. We’re putting an expectation on ourselves and holding ourselves to a standard we can’t necessarily maintain. And that’s a vicious circle.

We need something that is convenient, at home, doesn’t care what you look like, is engaging and encouraging, satisfying and fun. That doesn’t make you feel guilty about taking time out and doesn’t make your time out feel like a chore.

I wonder what that could be.

If you also want exercise to be a joy and not a chore, go to www.exertia.co.uk and sign up now!