Being active isn’t just about going to the gym, running for miles, or bending into the most flexible of yoga poses. It could be dancing around the kitchen, walking the dog or tending to the garden.
It’s up to you how you get active, but the more fun you have, and the easier it is to fit into your routine, the better. Thirty minutes of activity each day is a great target to aim for, but it doesn’t have to be all in one go. Every minute of activity counts!
In the long run, moving more also helps protect against serious illnesses like cancer, heart disease and stroke. But there are plenty of short-term benefits too, like improving sleep, boosting concentration, and relieving stress.
Getting active doesn’t need to be about doing traditional exercises. It can just be about doing things that fit into your daily routine, as and when you can. Building activity into your regular routine is one of the best ways you can start to build a new habit.
Moving more at home
Virtual Village Hall – Royal Voluntary Service
Brought to you by the charity, Royal Voluntary Service, the Virtual Village Hall is a free, online activity hub and community, designed to help people stay physically and mentally active, connected and having fun. No sign in or subscription required.
Five in Five
Five in Five is a completely customisable mini-workout to help you move in whatever way works for you. Doing Five in Five is simple: choose 5 exercises from the activity library and do each one for 1 minute, adding up to a 5 minute mini-workout.
10 Minute Shake Up – NHS Healthier Families
Get the kids moving with these fun games inspired by some of their favourite Disney characters.
These boredom-busting activities will help them towards the 60 active minutes of movement they need every day!
NHS Fitness Studio
A free library of instructor-led videos, including aerobic exercises, strength and resistance training, Pilates and yoga.
Getting active with a long-term health condition
We Are Undefeatable
Living with a long-term health condition? You’re not alone. “We Are Undefeatable” offers resources and support to help you get active regardless of your health challenges.
Moving with a heart condition – British Heart Foundation
If you have a health problem, set realistic goals and build up your exercise routine gradually. The British Heart Foundation has some great tips on moving more with a heart condition.
Moving more in your local community
Parkrun
Free community events where you can walk run jog or volunteer a 5k route where no one finishes last. Runs take place every Saturday morning across Dorset
The Parks Foundation
Active events at parks and open spaces across Dorset.
Health and Activity Dorset
A full activity programme to support you to move more through a range of entry level activities in the Dorset Council area.
NHS Better Health
No matter how much you do, physical activity is good for your body and mind. Adults should aim to be active every day. Some is good – more is better still.
Tips for moving outside during darker months
Many may find being in the dark a daunting prospect, although there are plenty of ways to help you stay alert and stay safe while you are outside getting some fresh air.
If you are new to moving more, it’s important to start small and increase the amount you do slowly. Listen to your body and remember, doing something is better than doing nothing.
Whether you are new to movement, or have been for a while, here are some top tips for staying safe this winter:
Tell someone your plan
Having a trusted person you can tell your plan to is always a good idea. It needn’t be much, just a text or chat, so long as they can be alert and know if to contact you.
Exercise with a friend
Not only is it motivating but it’s safer too!
Avoid loud music
Yes, it is great for motivation, however it can be distracting and stop you from being alert to your surroundings. Try using a low volume to ensure you are aware of everything going on.
Local resources to get you started
Activity Finder – Active Dorset
Unsure where to start? Use the Active Dorset Activity Finder to discover local groups and activities tailored for you.
LiveWell Dorset
Connect with LiveWell Dorset for free health behaviour change support. If you need more support to move more, LiveWell Dorset can provide free signposting and behaviour change coaching that can help you to overcome barriers, stay motivated, or build healthy habits.
