Men’s Health Week is an important reminder to pause and take stock of something many men tend to put off — their health. In clinical practice as an Exercise Physiologist, a common theme emerges: many men only seek support when something has already gone wrong. However, the reality is that long-term health is shaped long before symptoms appear.
Every year, Exercise Right Week shines a spotlight on the important role exercise plays in improving health, function, and quality of life. In 2026, the message is more important than ever: movement is not just about fitness or weight loss — it is a vital part of staying healthy, strong, and independent throughout life.
As an exercise physiologist, I hear it all the time: “Running is bad for your knees.” But the evidence tells a very different story—one that might change how you think about your joints.
Our mental health is just as important as our physical health, and like the heart, the brain responds powerfully to regular, well-designed movement. Tailored exercise programs are not only beneficial for strength, mobility and cardiovascular fitness — they are a highly effective, evidence-based tool for supporting mood, managing stress and enhancing overall psychological wellbeing.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties often referred to as “fibro fog.” While the exact cause of fibromyalgia is not fully understood, research suggests it involves changes in how the nervous system processes pain, leading to heightened pain sensitivity.
For years, the advice has been simple: eat fewer calories than you burn and the weight will drop. A calorie deficit works — until it doesn’t. If your once-reliable approach has stalled, you’re not alone.
If you’re living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), exercise can feel confusing—or even intimidating. You may have been told to “rest your joints” or you might worry that movement will worsen pain or inflammation. As an Accredited Exercise Physiologist, I want to reassure you: appropriate exercise is one of the most powerful tools for managing RA, not something to avoid.
What is Creatine?
Creatine is a naturally occurring compound found in muscle tissue and the brain. The body naturally produces a small amount of creatine, and we also get it from foods like red meat and seafood. The difficulty lies in reaching high muscle creatine levels through diet alone to fully saturate muscle stores, which is why supplementation is popular. To achieve optimal stores, you’d need to consume roughly a kilogram of beef or fish every single day—an impractical amount that you won’t hear our dietitian recommend!
Movement is one of the most powerful tools men have for improving both physical and mental well-being. Regular physical activity strengthens the body, sharpens the mind, and builds resilience, helping men perform better in every aspect of life. Whether it’s managing stress, maintaining a healthy weight, or preventing chronic disease, staying active plays a crucial role in keeping men strong, healthy, and engaged.
