Being active

Being active is an important part of a healthy lifestyle for the whole family whatever their age, however fit they might be. All movement counts so sit less, move more and look at how you can fit activity into your daily life.

Keeping children active

Exercise is important for children as they grow and develop. It encourages strong bones and muscles and is a vital part of a healthy lifestyle. There are lots of activities and sports children and young people can take part in.

Health checks for the over 40s

If you are aged between 40 and 74, you are entitled to a free NHS Health Check. After the check you can find out what exercise activities are available in the borough or join one of the programmes designed especially for those who have had a check.

Older people

The Be Active scheme offers great discounts on leisure centre membership and casual use. There are also a number of f ree social walks that take place across the borough.

Exercise on referral

We know that different medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure can be improved by gentle exercise and activity. To help people with these conditions, we run, along with Healthwise Physical Activity Referral | Better UK and 1Lifean exercise on referral scheme.

If you are referred by your GP or practice nurse, you will take part in a 12-week programme that might include aqua, circuit classes, gym sessions and led walks. At the end of the programme, you have the opportunity to join the leisure centre and use the facilities at a discounted rate.

If you think you have a condition that might benefit from the exercise on referral scheme, speak to your GP or practice nurse.

The right activity for you

If you’re looking for some leisure activities that suit you, you’ll find a huge choice of different activities and sports all over the borough.

Tips to become more active

Gradually build activity into your daily routine and find activities that you enjoy. Your aim should be to build up to 150 minutes of exercise a week: this can be done in chunks of 10–15 minutes spread out over the week.

Some things to think about:

enjoy a walk with family and friends

take the stairs instead of the lift or escalator

go for a swim

join a dance class and practise at home too

do some gardening.

Published on: 16/09/2022

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Walking

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