I received the boost I needed and rediscovered the power to take control of my own vitality.

How do you define vitality and what does the concept mean to you personally?

I consider vitality as zest for life, a concept that holds broad significance for me. I take a holistic approach, seeing vitality as encompassing physical, mental, and emotional well-being, all in harmony.

How did you perceive your vitality before participating in the Vitality Boost programme?

Before embarking on the "Exercise to Energise" journey, I possessed the willpower, enthusiasm, and mental energy, yet I found myself lacking in physical energy. Excuses such as 'I'll just go for a walk on the weekend' were a common pattern. My main challenge laid in the lack of physical activity.

What key insights have you gained during your journey?

Before starting the programme, we all took a 'Biological Age Test', which estimated my physical age to be 47 years old. This was quite confronting as it's significantly older than my actual age! It became evident that visceral fat had a detrimental effect on my vitality, leading to feelings of fatigue in my body. It was an eye-opener.

Can you tell us more about your experience during and after the journey?

The programme has practically taught me how to integrate physical activity into my days. Since participating, fresh air and movement have become part of my lunch break. I take a half-hour walk, walking the dog and listening to an audiobook. After lunch, I no longer experience an afternoon slump, allowing me to be more focused during the afternoon. In the evening, I take another half-hour walk to clear my mind. "Just schedule it" is the advice that sticks with me.

What was it like to share this experience with your colleagues?

Extremely positive. Despite being the first in my department to join, I found great motivation among the 22 other ING participants who share a similar mindset. This journey also allowed me to deepen my connections with my colleagues, and now many of us actively track and support each other's fitness pursuits on platforms like Strava.

Do you believe that the Vitality Boost programme could be valuable for all employees within ING? Would you recommend it?

The Vitality Boost programme is an important part of the wellbeing offer at ING, addressing both mental and physical wellness. The journeys serve as a powerful eye-opener about who you are and how you can take control of specific areas in your life. It doesn't reveal anything you don't already know, but it ignites the motivation to take charge. Additionally, with a variety of journeys available, there's something for everyone to resonate with and engage in.

Is there anything else you'd like to add or share?

It's all about setting your own goals. As long as you stay active and it enhances your fitness journey, it's worthwhile. The results will vary for each individual, and that diversity is something I find truly wonderful. The programme is highly accessible, offering opportunities to learn from one another's experiences, and the guidance provided is incredibly valuable.