Be More Active

Many of us aren't too keen on the idea of exercise. It might be that we’re too busy or we simply can’t face the thought of it.

But most people are not getting the amount of activity they need to stay healthy. Only 1 in 20 people are actually doing the right kind of activity they need each week. And sitting down for hours – maybe at work, watching TV or playing computer games – can also increase the risk of poor health.

The Wellbeing for Life team can support you to become more active. Building activity into your day keeps your heart healthy, reduces your risk of serious illness and strengthens muscles and bones. It can also be a great way of reducing your stress levels and lifting your mood if you’re feeling down.

Did you know?

• Adults need to be active for at least 150 minutes each week

Don’t worry, you don’t have to get your old tracksuit out or squeeze into Lycra gym wear – not unless you want you. If the thought of exercise fills you with fear then our team can help you find the right activity for you.

For adults, it can seem hard to fit activity in to a busy schedule. Working and looking after the rest of the family and the home can mean there isn’t much free time. And sometimes activity can seem expensive too – but it doesn’t have to be as there are loads of things you can do for free. Walking is underrated as a form of exercise, but it’s one of the easiest ways to get more activity into your day, lose weight and become healthier for free. To gain the health benefits, aim to walk 10,000 steps a day, burning up to 400 calories. To keep track of your walking, use a pedometer.

It’s not just about feeling stronger, fitter and more energetic. You can also get a great sense of achievement if you decide to learn to dance or take up a new sport, and you’ll feel loads more confident too.

Being active means getting your heart rate up, feeling warmer (perhaps even breaking into a light sweat) and making your lungs work harder.

Being active is all about having fun. If we don’t enjoy it, we won’t keep it up. We all deserve to spend some time doing something we enjoy.  Maybe take up an active hobby such as dancing or walking. The good news is that once you get started it’s easy to keep going. It doesn’t have to be something you do by yourself, it can be fun with friends and family and a great way to meet new people too.

Get in touch on 0800 8766887