Did you know that getting active can reduce anxiety and stress, combat low mood and increase self-esteem? It can help you feel good on the inside and out.
We know that starting something new can be challenging, and getting active is no exception. On this page you'll find some handy tips, resources and inspirational stories to help you on your way.
There are lots of different types of exercise and physical activity. The most important thing to consider, is finding something that you enjoy. Take a look at some of the great resources below to help you get started.
Aim for balance and be mindful of the exercise you do. Try to take rest days to help your physical and mental health and allow time for your body and mind to recover.
Getting active doesn't have to be long or intense. You could mix things up by taking part in fun challenges individually, in a group, or even online. Moving more is the key to finding something fun. Why not try one of the following:
See if you can add your own twist to something you already do, or you could create something completely new.
Developing a healthy relationship with physical activity can include building rest into your routine to allow your body and mind to recover.
Resources:
Blogs:
Campaign: We will be running communications over a four-week period launching on the 17 January to reach out to the public and physical activity sector. View our Calendar of Events.
The We Are Undefeatable campaign sees 15 health and social care charities join forces to inspire people with long-term health conditions to be active. We know that having a mental health problem can be physically draining, but physical activity, however big or small, can help improve your mood.
Starting something new can be daunting. If you've recently started exercising, or would like peer support to help you get there, our Side by Side online community can help. Side by Side is a free, supportive space where you can be yourself and link up with others who are just starting out too.
Our information guide is full of details about how being active can be good for your mental health. The guide explores lots of handy tips to help you get started. You can also discover which type of exercise may be best for you, and how to overcome the barriers that may stop you from taking part.
You might feel relieved or excited that lockdown is easing where you live, meaning you can return to some of your usual activities including some sport and physical activity sessions. But you might also find yourself feeling less positive about the changes and may move through a range of difficult thoughts and feelings.
To help you manage those thoughts and feelings, we've put together a handy guide to help you prepare for getting active or returning to sport and physical activity.
Watch Sujan's story about how running helped manage her anxiety and panic attacks.
We work with England Athletics to support Run and Talk events across England. If you'd like see if jogging is right for you, find a run near you on their site.
You can download our free Get Set to Go plan to help you think about:
Do you use a website, app or other resource that you would recommend to help others be active? If so, contact us at [email protected] with details including how it has helped you and we could add it to this page.