You're not lazy: Why reframing your behaviour is key

Why You’re Not As Active As You Want To Be: A Chiropractor’s Take Using the COM-B Model

At Riverside Chiropractic, we often hear people say, “I want to be more active, but something always gets in the way.” If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone — and you’re not lazy. There’s often a deeper explanation.

One of the most useful ways to understand why we do (or don’t do) something is a model from behavioral science called COM-B, which stands for Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation — the three ingredients needed to form a new behavior.

Let’s take a look at why you might not be as active as you’d like, and how chiropractic care can support you in each area.

1. Capability: Can Your Body Actually Do It?

Physical and psychological capacity to perform the activity.

If you're dealing with pain, stiffness, injury, or poor mobility, your capability to move is naturally reduced. For many people, that’s the biggest roadblock to physical activity.

How chiropractic helps:We focus on restoring your movement, reducing pain, and improving your biomechanics. Whether you’re struggling with an old back injury, recovering from a sports mishap, or just feeling “off,” chiropractic care helps your body function better so you can move more freely and confidently.

We also offer advice on posture, ergonomics, stretching, and gradual re-entry into movement — building your physical capability step-by-step.

2. Opportunity: Is Your Environment Helping or Hindering You?

All the external factors that make the behavior possible (or not).

You might be motivated and physically able to exercise — but if your daily routine is packed, you don’t have the right equipment, or you’re unsure what to do, the opportunity might not be there.

How chiropractic helps:We work with you to build realistic, achievable plans that fit your lifestyle. Whether it’s walking for 10 minutes at lunch or stretching before bed, small steps matter. We also connect with local movement professionals when needed — from exercise physiologists to yoga instructors — helping you create the right environment for healthy change.

3. Motivation: Do You Feel Like Doing It?

The brain-side of behavior — your goals, emotions, beliefs, and habits.

Pain is a motivation-killer. If moving hurts (or used to), your brain might associate movement with discomfort. Or you might feel discouraged, anxious, or unmotivated after trying and failing to get active before.

How chiropractic helps:By reducing pain and improving how your body feels, we make movement feel good again — and that’s a powerful motivator. We also take time to listen, educate, and encourage, helping you connect movement with progress, not punishment.

We’ll help you set goals, celebrate wins, and rebuild a positive mindset around activity — one small habit at a time.

The Bottom Line

If you’re not as active as you want to be, it’s not a character flaw — it’s a COM-B issue. And the good news is: each part of that model is changeable.

At Riverside Chiropractic, we’re not just here to “crack backs” — we’re here to help you move better, feel better, and build a life where activity is not only possible, but enjoyable.

Want help getting back on track?Book an appointment today and let’s build your Capability, create Opportunity, and unlock your Motivation — one step at a time.