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Obesity

Ask

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Would it be OK to spend a minute talking about something many people who struggle with their weight find really helpful?

Insight

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As weight can affect an individual’s physical activity beliefs and behaviours, focusing on this can be a useful way to introduce the topic.

Using a non-judgemental and respectful way to get a conversation about physical activity started can keep the individual actively engaged in the conversation and decision making.

If done successfully, a 1-minute conversation can plant the seed for successful behaviour change.

Did you know?

Download this great infographic showing the UK Chief Medical Officers’ recommendations (2019) for physical activity in adults and older adults

All physical activity counts towards moving more

Start small and build up gradually for a safe approach to starting activity

Real impact

‘Losing weight, seeing the numbers go down on the scale, feeling as though my clothes are fitting better (or I get into my smaller size clothes)… motivates me to work out, to be more purposeful in doing physical activity.’

“I’ve started to feel good about my body again as I felt it was failing me – letting me down”

“The others stayed in the program, which made me hang in as well. It sort of motivated me, seeing the other participants pushing themselves.”

Explain

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Many people who struggle with their weight find that moving more helps them manage their condition and symptoms, as well as improving their general wellbeing. I wonder what you make of that?

Insight

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Asking a question such as ‘what do you make of this’ allows some space for people to talk and explore the information rather than asking ‘do you understand?’ which can shut things down. They may already have a good understanding of the benefits of physical activity, so if you’re pressed for time you can ask it like this without patronising them and also offer the opportunity for them to tell you that they know it already.

Did you know?

Download this great infographic showing the UK Chief Medical Officers’ recommendations (2019) for physical activity in adults and older adults

All physical activity counts towards moving more

Start small and build up gradually for a safe approach to starting activity

Real impact

‘Losing weight, seeing the numbers go down on the scale, feeling as though my clothes are fitting better (or I get into my smaller size clothes)… motivates me to work out, to be more purposeful in doing physical activity.’

“I’ve started to feel good about my body again as I felt it was failing me – letting me down”

“The others stayed in the program, which made me hang in as well. It sort of motivated me, seeing the other participants pushing themselves.”

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Would you be interested in talking a little more about how physical activity might help with your health and wellbeing on another visit?

Insight

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Follow up may be with you, a colleague or another service, but try to capitalise on the opportunity provided and book the next step before they leave.
If they decline a follow up appointment offer them a patient information leaflet, thank them for taking the time to talk with you about physical activity and reassure them help is available when they feel ready for change.

Did you know?

Download this great infographic showing the UK Chief Medical Officers’ recommendations (2019) for physical activity in adults and older adults

All physical activity counts towards moving more

Start small and build up gradually for a safe approach to starting activity

Real impact

‘Losing weight, seeing the numbers go down on the scale, feeling as though my clothes are fitting better (or I get into my smaller size clothes)… motivates me to work out, to be more purposeful in doing physical activity.’

“I’ve started to feel good about my body again as I felt it was failing me – letting me down”

“The others stayed in the program, which made me hang in as well. It sort of motivated me, seeing the other participants pushing themselves.”