Active people live longer, happier and healthier lives.If physical activity is already part of your daily routine, well done!  Your health is moving in the right direction.

If you’re looking to get started, we have some suggestions – some may be familiar, some may surprise you……

Why do I need to exercise?

Keeping moving is fundamental to good health for children and adults alike. As well as keeping your weight in check, regular exercise prevents illness, boosts your immune system and relieves stress.

How much should I do?

Experts recommend 30 minutes of moderate activity on five or more days of the week.  Young people should be building up to at least 1 hour per day of activity.To lose weight, rather than maintain your current weight, you may need to do a bit more.

What is ‘moderate’ activity?

Try brisk walking, gardening, heavy housework, cycling, dancing, swimming, tennis or any sport you fancy. (The Active For Life Directory is easy to search includes over 350 different groups and sports for you to choose from).You’re aiming for anything that makes you feel warm and gets you slightly out of breath.

What if I don’t have time for regular exercise?

You don’t need to do it all in one ‘hit’ – break it down into 10 or 15 minute chunks if that suits you better.The good news is that you can make a big difference just by putting more effort into your daily activities: walking up the stairs instead of using the lift at work, vacuuming with more ‘oomph’, walking or cycling to the shops. There’s more suggestions below.

Where can I get more advice?

If you have particular health problems, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor first.  Otherwise, you’ll find help at your local leisure centre, in the Active For Life directory or by contacting: Community Sports Development, Brighton & Hove City Council on tel: (01273) 292724 or email: sports.info@brighton-hove.gov.uk

Spring into action

Do the housework yourself. Speed vacuuming burns at least four calories a minute. Dusting is great for stretching.

Use a watering can

Standing, walking and lifting are all involved and all good. What’s more, you’ll save water by not using a sprinkler so the environment will be happier too.

Talk on your feet

Use a cordless phone and walk while you’re talking – ideally up and down stairs. Doing this will burn at least six calories per minute

Play

Play with the dog and wrestle with your children – or vice versa.  If you don’t have either, take your neighbour’s dog for a walk instead.

Mow by hand

Using a pushmower rather than a powered version will burn at least eight calories per minute.Push hard enough to get slightly out of breath.A spell of pruning, digging and weeding would also reap great benefits.

Shop actively

Plan your weekly shopping so you can or bike to the shops a much as possible. If you need to use the car, try to park away from the shop or supermarket entrance and walk briskly.