Since 2016, Trans Can Sport (TCS) has been providing activities to trans and non-binary people in Brighton & Hove, and since 2020 going online has meant people from further afield have been able to take part.
TCS has been awarded funding from the National Lottery’s Awards for all 2022 activities, which will help the organisation continue to deliver free and low-cost activities to participants. Services are designed first and foremost for trans and non-binary people but they welcome anyone whose gender identity prevents them from taking part in sports, or who feel they would benefit from joining in. Many activities also welcome friends and partners, but TNB people are always prioritised.
Motivation
It’s the time of year many people say they’re going to start a healthier lifestyle. But why do you want to do this? Is it to feel better, to make friends, to feel more fit?
Knowing why you’re doing something, what changes you want to make and what benefits they will bring, will help you stay focussed and motivated.
Make it easy on yourself. Find a group or gym that’s close to home or your workplace. Schedule in your workouts, like you would a work meeting or social engagement. These small things can really help.
Do something you love
It’s surprising how many people torture themselves by doing activities they think they should be doing rather than what they want to be doing. Running a 5k at the crack of dawn is great, if you like that kind of thing, but that
doesn’t mean it will suit everyone. Find an activity that makes you want to do it again, and again. There’s so many options and they needn’t cost a lot of money. Exercise has so many benefits, and enjoyment is one of them. If it’s
not making you feel good, then try something else.
Add variety
Try something new. Perhaps something you never thought you would be interested in. You won’t know until you try it. TCS provides lots of taster sessions which many of our participants have gone to develop and love. Vary your
locations. Run a different route, cycle a different path, try another gym or yoga studio.
Do little and often
It’s said that it takes only a few weeks to form a new habit. Consistency is key here. Set goals that are achievable, and you’ll most likely meet them. Instead of thinking it’s marathon or nothing, break it down into chunks.
Celebrate your successes, no matter how small you think they are. Keep track of your achievements. They’ll help you feel better on blue days and over time you will be able to see your development.
Learn to rest
This might seem counter intuitive as a tip for getting active, but it’s important. Our bodies need time to repair and recover after exercise, no matter your level. Start off any new activity gently, including if you’re restarting after a
bit of time off, and build yourself up. Rest doesn’t mean doing nothing. Active recovery is beneficial and includes taking a walk or gentle stretching.
Find a buddy
A lot of people find motivation and enjoyment when they can share their active time with someone else. They can also help with accountability. That could be a mate who spots you in the gym or being part of a sports group.
If you prefer to do things on your own, you can still link up with others in social and tracking apps like Strava.
Don’t Rush It
Physical changes don’t happen overnight. It takes time, practice and consistency to improve your skills and fitness. Many people experience an immediate buzz from exercise, but long-term regular exercise can have a long-term beneficial impact on your mental health
To find out what activities are coming up and to take part, CLICK HERE
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