Live Well
Move more this
Spring 
Move more this Spring
With warmer days and lighter evenings, spring and summer are the perfect times of year to make the most of the outdoors, no matter where you live, or how active you are.
Top tips for making the most of out spring!
With warmer days and lighter evenings, spring and summer are the perfect times of year to make the most of the outdoors, no matter where you live, or how active you are. Dorset provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor movement, thanks to its large number of green spaces, beaches and access to National Parks like the New Forest.
From exploring our local parks, greenspaces, or countryside, to enjoying mindfulness moments in local woodlands and forests – getting outside for a breath of fresh air can really help to make us feel good.
Research from Sport England found that being outdoors helps to reduce people’s levels of stress, and that our activity level is linked to our mental wellbeing. Being active can lead to improved self worth, whilst being with others creates positive shared experiences, and gives us emotional support.
There are lots of benefits to spending time outdoors, both physically and mentally, whilst doing your bit for the environment!
- Improved mood
- Improved mental health
- Reduced stress and connects you to the outdoors
- Increased Vitamin D leading to stronger bones
- Saves money
- Gives your immune system a boost
- Connect you to your local community
Being active doesn’t have to involve traditional ways of moving. You can find something that you genuinely enjoy doing and have lots of fun doing it. It’s easier to stay motivated when you move in a way that you enjoy.
You could try:
- Go for a walk with some friends
- Do a spot of gardening (if you have one) or look to volunteer at a community garden
- Go for a swim
- Play with the kids (or grandkids) in the garden
- Explore your local park
Other activities taking place in Dorset during the Spring and Summer
Enjoy free community yoga in nature on Sunday mornings from May to September to help improve your health and wellbeing. Everyone’s welcome to attend – regardless of age, background or ability. The 2026 season will run from Sunday 3rd May to Sunday 13th September 2026.
parkrun is a free, community event where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate. parkrun is 5k and takes place every Saturday morning. junior parkrun is 2k, dedicated to 4-14 year olds and their families, every Sunday morning.
Take some time just for yourself on a wellbeing trail. Follow the trail to take a mindful walk through the forest, where themed panels will invite you to pause, notice and connect with the forest environment.
Dorset Council have a number of Health Walks which take place across the Dorset Council area.
Unlike running or other high-impact activities, swimming supports your body and reduces stress on your joints, making it an excellent option for people with arthritis and other long term health conditions.
Cycling has many health benefits that can be done at a very low intensity to begin with, and can be built up as you feel like you are able to.
Dorset Health cycle rides are free health rides are led by volunteer leaders and are a great way to start cycling. This gives you the chance to ride with other like-minded people and feel the benefits that cycling brings.
Volunteering
By becoming a volunteer, you have so many opportunities to get your body moving. You can volunteer in a range of different roles, from offering companionship to people who are socially isolated, to providing practical help to those recovering from illness.
As well as helping you get active, volunteering can improve your mental health and wellbeing, and reduce anxiety and depression.
