The Benefits of Moving

We know that being physically active can give a huge boost to our health.

It can reduce the risk of developing a range of medical conditions, including cancer, dementia, strokes, heart disease and depression. Sport and physical activity can help prevent ill health, leading to improvements in strength, balance, movement, and help in maintaining a healthy body weight.

Movement can contribute towards improved quality of sleep, increased energy levels, healthy early years development, reduced unhealthy behaviours like smoking and effective pain management and improved quality of life as we get older.

Physical activity can contribute to an increased sense of enjoyment and happiness.

Volunteers and sports fans also have an increased sense of purpose and pride, while self-esteem and confidence are known to increase through participation or volunteering.

Sport and physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression symptoms.

As well as developing individuals, sport and physical activity can help build stronger communities by bringing people together.

Movement and physical activity is widely seen as a way for people of different backgrounds to interact and take part together. This includes volunteering and watching from the sidelines.

Physical activity can have a positive impact on a person’s employment opportunities and provide support to those who are not in employment, education or training.

There’s also clear evidence being active improves educational behaviour, as people who are more physically active feel happier and more confident.

For some people, aiming for a couple of minutes throughout the day can help them get started and then you can gradually build up over time. Each day, listen to your body and do what feels comfortable to you. If the idea of ‘doing exercise’ isn’t for you, being more active in your day-to-day life can make a difference too.

Some ideas you could try:

• Use the stairs instead of the lift
• If possible, walk or cycle to work
• Take a walk during your lunch break
• Try to walk short journeys, rather than using the car
• Do some gentle stretching while the kettle boils, try some seated movements during the TV ad breaks or put your favourite music on and dance while you do the dishes.

If you find the idea of being active on your own boring, try get other people involved too. Ask your family and friends, or even a colleague. Being active can be a lot more fun with other people.

Visit our Encouraging Friends and Family page for more information.

Being active doesn’t have to involve the most popular ways of moving. You are more likely to carry on being active if you enjoy what you are doing. If you find something you like doing, you’ll soon see the benefits, and you’re more likely to keep going.

Visit our activity finder for suggestions and new ways to move in a way that works for you.

Being active doesn’t have to mean going all out. It can be a great way to relax and clear your head. Many activities can be done at home, leaving you feeling great afterwards. Being able to change how difficult it is means you can build up your strength at your own pace when it feels right for you. Some examples include:

• Yoga and Pilates
• Exploring your local park or green space
• Going for a walk before, or after work