Getting active

Being physically active every day is one of the best things that you can do for your health and wellbeing. If you are currently inactive, there is a lot to be gained by becoming more active. Even small increases in physical activity can contribute to improved health and quality of life.

UK Chief Medical Officers' Physical Activity Guidelines 2019 D o i n g s o m e p h y s i c a l e x e r c i s e i s g oo d a n d ev e r y m i n u t e c o u n t s s o i t ’ s n ev e r t o o l a t e t o s t a r t . M i n i m i s e s ed e n t a r y t i m e b r e a k u p p e r i o d s o f i n a ct iv i t y B u i l d s t r e n g t h an d i mp r ov e b a l a n c e k e e p m u s c l e s , b o n e s a n d j o i n t s s t r o n g t o a g e h e a l t h il y B e a c t i v e f o r g oo d p h y s i c a l a n d m e n t a l h e a l t h , a d u lt s s ho u l d ai m t o b e p h y s i c al l y a c t i v e ev e r y d a y UK Chief Medical Officers' Physical Activity Guidelines 2019 M i n i m i s e s ed e n t a r y t i m e b r e a k u p p e r i o d s o f i n a ct iv i t y B u i l d s t r e n g t h an d i mp r ov e b a l a n c e k e e p m u s c l e s , b o n e s a n d j o i n t s s t r o n g t o a g e h e a l t h il y B e a c t i v e f o r g oo d p h y s i c a l a n d m e n t a l h e a l t h , a d u lt s s ho u l d ai m t o b e p h y s i c al l y a c t i v e ev e r y d a y

Any form of movement can be beneficial for health

Walking, gardening or even household chores are good ways to build activity into your daily routine. As we age, it is increasingly important to choose exercises which build strength and improve balance. Exercises that improve leg strength, balance and coordination can help people maintain and improve muscle strength and avoid falls as they age. Improving flexibility can improve posture, reduce aches and pains, lower risk of injury, and help with continuing to carry out everyday tasks.

stair climbing going to the gym carrying heavy shopping ball games yoga gardening UK Chief Medical Officers' Physical Activity Guidelines 2019 going to the gym yoga carrying heavy shopping ball games UK Chief Medical Officers' Physical Activity Guidelines 2019 gardening stair climbing

What are the health benefits of being active?

Regular physical activity provides a wide range of physical and mental health benefits. Some of these are:

  • Reduced risk of many long-term conditions, including dementia
  • Better management of existing conditions
  • Better musculoskeletal health
  • Creating opportunities to connect with other people
  • Creating opportunities to be outdoors
  • Helping to maintain a healthy weight
  • Improved sleep
  • Improved mood, self-esteem and confidence

Source: UK Chief Medical Officers' Physical Activity Guidelines 2019 Depression 30% 20% C o l o n c a n c e r 40% 30% Falls C a r d i ov a s c u l a r d i s e a s e 35% 20% 20% Joint and back pain

For more information about the benefits of physical activity visit the NHS website.

For examples of ways to be active whilst living with a long-term condition visit the We Are Undefeatable website.

Finding ways to get active

Use the Energise Me Hampshire Activity Finder to find local activities in Hampshire.

Across Hampshire there are lots of public spaces and activities available for free. Visit Hampshire provides ideas for things to do that will keep you active and enjoying the outdoors.