Posted on October 23, 2024 by Kate Halsall

When it comes to staying healthy and sticking to an exercise routine, it’s not just about our body or physical fitness. Our health is shaped by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. This idea comes from what’s called the biopsychosocial model of health, which helps us understand how these three areas work together to influence our well-being.

Let’s break it down:

1. Biological Factors

These are the physical aspects of health. Things like age, gender, genetics, and overall physical condition play a big part in how we respond to exercise or maintain a healthy lifestyle. For example, someone with joint pain or a chronic illness might find it harder to stick to high-intensity workouts, while someone who is naturally athletic may find it easier.

How it helps with exercise adherence:

If we understand our own body’s limits and strengths, we can create exercise routines that work with our bodies rather than against them. This might mean adjusting intensity, choosing exercises that avoid injury, or focusing on what your body can do rather than what it can’t.

2. Psychological Factors

This involves our mental health, emotions, attitudes, and motivation. Stress, anxiety, depression, and even confidence levels can impact whether we feel like exercising or sticking to a healthy eating plan. Our mindset plays a big role in whether we view exercise as a chore or something positive that benefits our well-being.

How it helps with exercise adherence:

By focusing on mental health and motivation, we can build better habits. Setting achievable goals, celebrating small wins, and having a positive attitude towards fitness can make it easier to stay committed. It’s also important to recognise mental barriers—like negative self-talk—that may hold you back.

3. Social Factors

This includes your relationships, environment, and the community around you. Family support, friendships, workplace culture, and even your neighbourhood can impact your health choices. If you have a friend who goes running with you or a family member who supports your fitness goals, it can make a huge difference.

How it helps with exercise adherence:

A strong support system can keep you motivated. Social factors also include group workouts, gym classes, or just surrounding yourself with people who value fitness. Even online communities can provide that extra push to stick to a plan. Knowing you’re not alone in your fitness journey can make it easier to stay on track.

How the Biopsychosocial Model Can Help You Stay on Track

The key to using this model for improving your health is to look at all of these areas and not just focus on one. By paying attention to your body’s needs (biological), keeping a positive mindset (psychological), and surrounding yourself with support (social), you can create an exercise routine or healthy lifestyle that’s easier to stick with over time.

For example, if you’re struggling to stay active:

  • Biologically, consider if you need to adjust the intensity of your workouts.
  • Psychologically, think about your motivations. Are you doing exercises you enjoy, or is there something holding you back mentally?
  • Socially, look at the people around you. Could finding a workout buddy or joining a group make it more enjoyable?

The biopsychosocial model reminds us that health is about more than just hitting the gym. It’s about understanding how our mind, body, and surroundings all play a part in making lasting lifestyle changes.