Getting started – tops tips for those new to activity

Starting something new can feel a bit scary, but starting small and making small simple changes can really help boost your mood and your activity levels.

Check out our Top Tips if you are new to exercise:

• Choose activities you enjoy – this can really help you keep up the new healthier routine
• Set simple goals and make a plan – arrange to go for a walk with a friend or take a lunchtime stroll through the park, even a little bit of activity is good activity
• Start slowly and pace yourself – listen to your body, you may need to do a warm up for some activities. Only do what feels comfortable, particularly if you have a health condition.
• Enjoy the outdoors – getting outside is good for our mental health, it can help reduce our anxiety and improve our mood
• Wear comfortable clothes – where something you feel comfortable in, you should be able to move freely but you don’t need to wear lycra and look ‘sporty’ to fit in
• Stay hydrated – keeping hydrated is important to keep you healthy

How much activity should I be doing?

Early years

Children and young people 5-18 years

Adults & older adults

Pregnant women

Disabled adults

The legal bit