The article below is an excerpt from my newsletter: Well Enough with Harry Bullmore. To get my latest thoughts on fitness and wellbeing, pop your email address into the box above to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.
Redefining Your Fitness Journey
Are you curious about what makes a workout truly effective? While you may hope for a one-size-fits-all solution, the reality is more nuanced. The quest for the “perfect workout” is often misguided. Instead of aiming for perfection, embracing a consistent approach can lead to lasting fitness success.
The reality is simple: doing something is always better than doing nothing. Regular, imperfect workouts contribute more positively to your health than sporadic intense sessions. This newsletter will focus on the benefits of imperfection in your fitness journey.
Recently, I learned from sports psychologists Stuart Holliday and Tia Prior about the mental strategies of Sharon Lokedi, the winner of the 2025 Boston Marathon. Rather than envisioning a flawless race, she prepares for the worst-case scenarios, ensuring that any positive outcome is a bonus.
I echo this mindset in my own fitness routine. I start with two essential, non-negotiable sessions each week, typically full-body strength training. Beyond these, I outline several secondary workouts I would like to fit in, as well as some “luxury” sessions that can happen if I find extra time.
To enhance this framework, I prioritize daily movements. Walking my dog, exploring new areas, and choosing stairs over elevators are all part of my routine.
Your Simple Fitness Framework
To put this approach into practice, take a glance at your weekly schedule. Identify the minimum amount of exercise you can realistically commit to—whether that’s a 20-minute strength training session or a short daily walk. This becomes your baseline.
If time permits, look to build on this baseline with additional physical activities. If life gets busy, maintaining that baseline is still a win. Remember: consistency is crucial for long-term improvement.
This idea extends to other areas of life, including diet. A rigid, overly strict approach to eating is generally unsustainable. Instead, strive for balanced eating habits that prioritize whole foods and moderation. Nutritionist Nicola Ludlam-Raine offers a useful snacking formula: include protein and fiber in your snacks. Combinations like apple and cheese, or carrots and hummus, can provide nutrition and satisfy hunger.
Additionally, I explored a challenge: doing goblet squats daily for a month. This simple exercise improved my squat technique and increased mobility in my hips, knees, and ankles. The takeaway? Consistent practice leads to tangible benefits over time.
Conclusion: Embrace Imperfection for Better Health
Ultimately, the key message here is simple: your fitness routine and diet don’t need to be perfect. Commit to small, manageable actions consistently. The journey may not be flawless, but your persistence will yield positive results in your health over time.
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