The choices we make about how we live can have a significant effect on our health, including taking the time to exercise regularly.  It’s not too late to begin enjoying an active lifestyle, taking more exercise can improve your health at any age and has many benefits such as:

•          Reducing your risk of major illness
•          Improved self-esteem and mood
•          Better quality sleep
•          More energy

Research shows exercising regularly can reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer by up to 50% and lower your risk of early death by up to 30%. Further to this, it can reduce your risk of stress, depression, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Ideally, to reap these benefits, adults need to achieve 150 minutes of physical activity over a week through a variety of activities. The easiest way to achieve this is often to make activity a part of everyday life, like walking or cycling instead of using the car.

Locally you can download the Walk-it Hull app and plan walks around your local area. If you want to try something new visit the Active Hull website and find information on where you can take part in sport and physical activity.

More information and advice about exercise is available below:

• Park Run Social Group – East Park, Hull
• Park Run Social Group – West Park, Hull
• Family fitness
• 12 week fitness plan
• Get running: couch to 5k
• Walking for health
• Fitness for wheelchair users
• Exercise as you get older
• Healthy lifestyles Hull

Remember: if you have a long term health condition or have a BMI of 30 or above, it may be important that you consult with your GP before undertaking a new exercise regime. If this is you and you’re concerned about your health or would like to become more active, speak with your GP.