Here are Alkayat’s top tips for keeping active when you’re not in a good headspace:

1. Quiet the criticism

“It’s tempting, easy and maybe even a habit to be critical of ourselves. If you’re not feeling your best, adjust your expectations for the day and don’t beat yourself up if you don’t complete as intense a workout as you expected.

“Be patient, kind and understanding with what you’re able to do that day, like you would be with a friend. Remember that things will be different on another day and try not to judge yourself.”

2. Find balance

“Choose something lifting and energising if you’re feeling low, or calming and gentle if you’re feeling more anxious, frantic or stressed. Learning to read the signs that your body and mind are giving off can help you choose the best approach for yourself on any given day. If you can, tracking patterns in your moods or symptoms will help you plan ahead.”

3. Change the scenery

“A change of environment can help, so stepping outside for a walk, a jog or a focused workout can make all the difference. While outside, notice what’s around you: colours, textures, animals, nature, acknowledging other people you pass. This can help shift you out of unhelpful thought processes.”

4. Get together

“It can be harder to stay motivated when exercising alone. Group classes can help keep you going, or why not stay accountable with friends, family or local groups?

“Remember that exercise takes many forms – you don’t have to be a ‘gym fanatic’. There are walking and talking groups like Mental Health Mates, Walk Talk Walk or ParkRun for casual weekly runs. Try things, be open and find what works for you – that might be different to what works for someone else.”

How to exercise with depression and anxiety (even when your mental health won’t let you exercise)