exercise healthy

There’s no way around this: in order to be healthy, exercise has to be a part of your life.

And remember: getting fit is free. You don’t need gym membership, you can simply go for a walk or run or even do some gardening. If you do prefer to be involved in group exercise, try booking in to classes and pay as you go, just to see if you like it.

Making activity a part of your life

It’s not that hard to adopt an active lifestyle.

If you haven’t done any exercise in a while it can be hard to get back into it. Don’t worry. Think about an exercise you enjoy and remember how great you felt before.
If you are a busy mum you might think exercise is for others. So try walking the kids to school, go swimming with them or take them to the park. Even- now don’t say it too loud-housework can give you a good workout!
If you work in an office there are so many ways to up your exercise levels. Cycle or walk to work or get off the bus one stop early and walk the rest of the way. Take the stairs once in a while or go for a walk or swim at lunch time.

Try getting your exercise the low impact way

Walking is great for the cardiovascular system and burns calories too. 10,000 steps a day can significantly improve your health and help to build stamina. Head for the hills – or even just the shops.
If you like your exercise to be set to music, step aerobics are a good, low-impact alternative to traditional aerobics.
Never underestimate the positive effects of a good stretch

Take an active break

Going on holiday? Take a bit of exercise and you’ll come back feeling like a new you.

Camping and hiking are great ways to get some fresh air. The millions of people who love it can’t all be wrong.
Adventure holidays can really get your heart-rate moving – whether it’s adrenaline-fuelled activities like surfing or more laid-back adventures on horseback.
Volunteering holidays give you the chance to get fit while helping less fortunate people
Staycations are a great value way of exploring your local area, as well as enriching your life by visiting the museums, parks and monuments.

Staying fit at home

There are plenty of ways to keep fit around the house.

Housework and gardening can give you a workout as long as it gets your heart beating a bit faster. Get a workout at your own ‘home gym’ and kill two birds with one stone.
Washing the car by hand will get your heart pumping and you’ll save on the car wash.
Even watching TV can have its benefits, especially if you like exercise DVDs. There are plenty to choose from, for all fitness levels and standards.