Let's face it, if we don't enjoy something the chances of doing it regularly are pretty slim. The bottom line is that if you can find some fun ways to be more active, you'll be more likely to do them more often. Pick something that suits you — swimming is a great way to keep active if you are worried about putting joints under pressure.
Dancing is great exercise, whatever you choose. Tap, Square, Ballroom or Rock & Roll. Dance as if nobody's watching!
You don't have to live amongst rolling fields to take advantage of the opportunities for a great walk. Here are a few ideas to make it a walk in the park...
- If you live in a town make use of the local parks or take a stroll around the area where you live.
- Visit a zoo or aquarium to make it a fun day out
- Take a trip to a country park on the outskirts of town
- Arrange a walk with some friends to a country pub for lunch
- Join a local walking group
If you get involved in a fun sport or activity its more likely that your friends or family will want to get involved too.
- Taking in part in activities as a family or group of friends will increase the amount of time you can spend together having fun.
- Health professionals agree that physical activity is essential to help children reach and maintain a healthy weight
Vary the type of exercise you do to keep it fun and interesting
People who exercise regularly generally have more get-up-and-go than people who are sedentary. They also tend to live longer.
Fun exercise for the kids
Getting the kids active can often be tough, especially when the playstation has them under its spell. As cheaper alternatives to the Theme Park here's some ways to make activity fun — good exercise for Mums and Dads too!
- Turn a walk into an adventure or a treasure hunt
- Invite a couple of friends to share in the fun
- Go at a pace that suits everyone, there's no need to rush
- Aim for a destination like a castle, a lake or a hill to fly a kite
- Take enough to drink and a few treats
Be flexible — shorten the route or change your plans if small legs are getting tired.
For information on activities in your area visit www.activeplaces.com