Earlier this month, the government said nearly half of the UK population – around 43 per cent – were feeling “more motivated” to change their lives than last year. This includes plans to eat healthier, lose weight, and get more exercise.
The figures are the result of a study by Public Health England, which involved more than 5,000 adults.
It also showed that up to 70 per cent of UK adults are motivated to make lifestyle changes due to Covid-19 pandemic.
Now, former national cricketer in England, Jeremy Snape has told Express.co.uk that the urge to be healthier in 2021 is fueled by the ongoing pandemic and it may be linked back to our “old brains”.
Mr Snape said: “The key point from these numbers is the shift from intentions to actions and as always, our mental and physical health will be determined by our practices in 2021, not our hopes.
“Our old brains have been prioritized to avoid risk rather than strive for excellence. Wellness was seen as ambition rather than essential, but the heightened risks of Covid-19 problems have been brought to a much sharper focus.
“Exercise gives us the threefold effect of combining physical, psychological and emotional benefits that are all vital to us in tackling the problem of lockout. ”
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He suggested that ‘jalking’ – a combination of a mixed walk with a “few seconds slow” – could be helpful.
At the same time, the Government said the lifestyle changes went beyond food and exercise for some survey respondents.
Nearly half of those who increased their drink intake through the second lock – 45 per cent – said they wanted to drink less in 2021.
It is estimated that around 28 per cent of adults in England live with obesity while around 36 per cent are obese.