Health and Wellbeing

This is new column where we’ll be taking a look and different ways that all of us can stay fit, well and healthy.

Our inaugural columnist is Helen Ley, Sports Development Manager

Let’s be honest, most of us could think of a hundred better ways to spend our precious free time than sweating and straining our way to the perfect body! But getting into shape really needn’t be a time-consuming chore. Sure, it can be difficult through the winter months, finding the enthusiasm to drag yourself off the sofa and get active, but there are loads of ways of turning flab to fab!

By incorporating just thirty minutes activity into your average day you will soon start to see the results. If the treadmill isn’t really your thing then how about taking the stairs at work instead of the lift? Or why not get off the bus one stop earlier and walk the rest of the way – good for the wallet as well as the waistline! And instead of struggling to find the nearest possible parking spot, why not just park at the far end of the supermarket or work car park and walk the short distance?

Regular activity can increase energy levels, minimises stress, and promotes healthier cholesterol and better sleep patterns. And believe it or not, it can be fun!

Yes, you did hear me right…getting fit can be fun! Why not get your colleagues, friends and family on board too? Join forces to go walking, jogging or have a friendly kick-about and you can have a catch up whilst burning calories in the process. And in the workplace, how about starting a lunchtime fitness or yoga class to boost your energy resources?

No matter how demanding your day be, it’s time we all took some time our for ourselves. Just 30 minutes exercise (a tiny 2% of your day!) can boost our overall quality of life, often promotes longevity and can be an excellent social activity too.