The importance of exercise

With most of this year spent in lockdown or under restrictions that have required us to stay at home, it is no surprise that the motivation to stay active and get daily exercise has been more difficult.

With many gyms and sports clubs closed, and restrictions on group activities and travel meaning we’ve had to stay in our local areas, the physical activities we enjoy doing to keep fit have been affected.

But keeping to a daily exercise regime can do wonders for your physical and mental health.

Here are just some of the benefits it can deliver:

• Lower blood pressure and improved heart health

• Improved joint pain and less stiffness

• Reduced feelings of anxiety and depression

• Reduced risk of serious health issues, such as heart disease and strokes

• More energy and help to get a better sleep

• A boost to your immune system which can prevent you from falling sick.

Here are some of our top tips to help you get active.

Get outdoors – even with the cold winter weather it’s great to get outside and get some physical exercise. Some fun outdoor activities include going for a brisk walk, jog or going for a cycle. Why not get the family out the house and take them with you? Family exercise is a great opportunity for active fun and can help you get some much needed fresh air while keeping you fit.

Do an online exercise class – hundreds of free online classes are available on YouTube and other social media channels to suit all ages and fitness levels. Whether you prefer yoga, cardio, strength workouts, dance or other types of exercise you will be able to find a free class online suitable for you and for all the family.

Set challenges – some great free apps are also available to help you when you are starting out. Keeping a log of your activity or using a fitness tracker may help you set goals and stay motivated. Setting challenges can be fun too; why not set a star jumps or skipping rope challenge that all the family can take part in?

Tackle chores – chores such as hoovering, washing the car, clearing out the loft, or working in the garden provide excellent opportunities for physical exercise and can help build muscles and burn calories. You also get a sense of accomplishment after your workout and for completing that household task you have been putting off.

Maintaining a consistent physical activity routine will help keep your health and fitness goals on track, so be sure to continue making physical activity a priority in your day. And don’t give up; try new activities if you aren’t enjoying the ones you are doing.

Start today and take the first steps towards a healthy, happy life.