Research of 2,000 adults found two thirds are eager to improve their physical health so they can get more out of life.
And four in 10 adults believe a healthier lifestyle could limit the chances of them developing underlying health conditions.
But a quarter hope changes to how they live will mean they are less at risk of catching Covid-19.
However, the study, commissioned by Bupa Health Clinics to mark the launch of its new health assessments, found half of those polled have ‘always’ struggled to motivate themselves.
Dr Arun Thiyagarajan, medical director, said: “The Covid-19 pandemic has thrown our health and wellbeing into the spotlight, and it’s no surprise that people are looking to make long-term positive changes to their overall lifestyle.
“Despite being motivated, it can still be hard to actually take the steps towards making these changes.
“Everyone’s health and wellbeing is unique and what works for one person doesn’t necessarily work for another, so it’s important to find what works for you –help and advice is available for those who need it.”
The study also found a quarter of adults have attempted a plan of some sort – such as a diet or exercise regime – in the past three months.
And of the 60 per cent who’ve ever attempted a new regime, 79 per cent admitted they found it hard to stick to it.
A lack of drive (47 per cent), losing interest (34 per cent) and not seeing the results quickly enough (31 per cent) were among the reasons why they found it tricky.
But 45 per cent also felt overwhelmed by the information available about improving health.
It also emerged 41 per cent tend to go online for information, 29 per cent turn to their doctor and 18 per cent ask their friends – and worryingly, 16 per cent will simply rely on guesswork.
Dr Arun Thiyagarajan added: “When it comes to making these changes, knowing where to get the right information can be difficult and sometimes overwhelming, which is completely understandable.
“In our health clinics, we see many people who take up fad diets or extreme exercise programmes that are difficult to stick to.
“We want to encourage people to adopt a healthier approach that they can maintain all year round – with ongoing support and advice of our lifestyle and health advisors.”
Researchers also found more than half of adults are currently struggling with their mental health – with 55 per cent looking for ways to improve their mental wellbeing.
And over the last six months, 36 per cent of those polled via OnePoll said their mental health has worsened, with 85 per cent taking steps to address this aspect of their health.
Exercise (46 per cent), eating healthily (40 per cent) and spending time with family (39 per cent) are the most popular ways for looking after their mental health
Dr Arun Thiyagarajan said “Looking after our mental health is equally as important as our physical health, so we need to take steps to ensure we’re looking after both.
“Usually these come hand in hand, for example if you’re eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly you tend to feel better mentally.
“But there are other things you can do such as practicing mindfulness and speaking to loved ones about how you’re feeling which can boost your mood.
“If you’re struggling with your mental health please do speak to your GP who will be able to help.”
For more information, visit https://www.bupa.co.uk/health/health-assessments
