Staying physically active
As many of us are spending more time at home this winter, we’re likely to spend less time moving and more time sitting – which isn’t good for our physical or mental health.
Moving more lifts our mood, burns off energy, helps us sleep better and enables us to manage a healthy weight.In order to stay healthy, adults should be moving for around 30 minutes a day, but we know it’s more difficult during darker winter months. So, we’ve shared below some ideas around getting and staying active:
- Walking is a great activity and an easy way to take your recommended daily amount of physical activity. Trails and activities around the borough for all ages and abilities can be found here – including the Tameside Trail and culture activity walks for little ones.
- Boost your wellbeing with a simple and achievable exercise challenge. It involves completing as many walks as possible in a month, including one or more of the Super Six exercises (a programme of standing and sitting strength and balance exercises) on the way. The Personal ‘Super Six Walks Tracker’ is aimed at anyone over the age of 50 or those who have been shielding over lockdown.
- Getting back on that bike you might have bought in lockdown is great for your health and an easy and quick way to get exploring around the borough. Lots of cycling trails are available here.
- NHS Couch to 5k beginners running plan will help you gradually work up towards running 5km in just 9 weeks, with a mixture of running and walking.
- Home workout ideas and videos, from dance fitness, to gentle seated workouts, to yoga are available on Active Tameside’s website; or you can download their app here
- Loads of great hints, tips and blog posts for staying active during lockdown can be found on the GM Moving pages.