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10 easy ways to stay active this year

 

Venue closures, lockdowns and working from home for many of us. It’s been a difficult time, where inspiration and motivation have been a little hard to come by. In fact, it’s probably led you to feel lethargic and pretty stuck in a rut. These feelings often persuade you to stay under your duvet or glued to the sofa.  It just feels so tempting to do… nothing!

Yes, we know it’s tough to find the motivation to be more active after such a challenging year. But, we want to inspire you to turn off that TV, jump up and get moving! Because the benefits of even a small amount of physical activity can make you happier and healthier – physically and mentally – this year.

 

“But lockdown has made fitness so hard!”

 

The circumstances surrounding the pandemic have not made it easy. No-one can deny that. You might feel sluggish and stiff.
We’ve all been there… but our (not so) big secret is that you don’t actually need to do anything HUGE to get more active this year. Small changes can make a huge difference.

 

 

And, here’s the best bit… when you do become even slightly more active, you’ll instantly feel more awake, alive, bright and energetic! All very important for 2021!

 

Staying at home? 5 simple ways to move more:

 

Did you know that you don’t have to go to great lengths to be active? In fact, you can stay at home, close by or simply make some small changes to your everyday routine.

1.    Do an online tutorial

Another afternoon in front of the TV? Instead, grab your phone, laptop or even set your TV up for a home workout. We have lots of different online classes to try here. From strength and flexibility to relaxing yoga to calm your mind and improve your wellbeing, there’s bound to be something up your street.

Do you have a health condition? Enjoy a wide range of classes that support your life and condition.

2.    Have a kitchen disco

Kitchen, living room… anywhere in fact! Stick some of your favourite tunes on and have a boogie. Involve the kids! Involve the dog! Combine it with washing the pots or making dinner but whatever you do, have fun and move your body to the beat. Music and dancing release endorphins (the happy hormone) and it’ll be an instant mood booster, as well as being great for your physical health.

3.    Walk the dog

Or go alone, with a friend or with the kids (if you don’t have a furry friend!). And don’t let the British weather put you off! Instead, embrace the elements come rain or shine. You might actually better appreciate the warmth of your home when you get back in!

 

 

Living with a disability or mobility problems? We understand going for a walk isn’t so simple but don’t underestimate the importance of getting outdoors. Ask a carer, family member or friend for support – and explain how vital it is for your physical and mental wellbeing.

4.    Park further away

On the school run? Park a couple of streets away and walk the rest of the way. The same goes with work or the shops. If you get the bus, get off a stop early.

5.    Desk yoga

Working from home? Sat down all day? Doing stretches at your desk (or the kitchen table, where many of us sit!) can make a huge difference. Even tapping your feet to music and ‘shaking it out’ when you feel stressed can boost your mood twofold.

 

Venturing out? 5 easy and enjoyable ideas:

 

Fancy joining a class? Choose from a huge range of options – book here. There’s truly something for everyone, no matter your age, lifestyle or whether you’re living with a health condition or disability. All the classes are set up for you and ready to go – and we’re sure you’ll find them very motivating!

Here’s a taster of what you can do:

  1. Try out pilates  From beginner to advanced, we have lots of options to try!
  2. Fun indoor cycling – Get your heart pumping and cycle to music, a feel-good class that will really boost those happy hormones.
  3. Workout quick with HIIT – Not much time on your hands? With classes being as short as 30 minutes, you don’t have to give up your whole evening for a quick fitness boost.
  4. Join junior gymnastics – Something for the kids who want to boost their flexibility and strength, while having fun times with new friends.
  5. Go swimming – A great activity for everyone. Swimming has so many benefits and is a great way to get active.

 

Make small changes for a big impact on your life:

 

 

Forget the idea of a fitness challenge or extravagant gym membership! Instead, make lots of little changes to your everyday life. You’re bound to have lots of success and feel so much better – physically and mentally.

Discover more top tips to get active this year here.