Exercise

There is much evidence to suggest that leading an active lifestyle with physical activity leads to improved health.

Regular exercise can

• increase levels of HDL (good) cholesterol
• lower blood pressure
• improve blood sugar levels
• promote bone density
• burn fat

Adults should have at least 30 minutes regular moderate-intensity physical activity most days of the week.  Moderate-intensity could be a brisk walk – or an activity that makes you feel warm and mildly out of breath.  You should still be able to talk without panting.

If you don’t have the time or stamina for 30 minutes every day – don’t despair – separate sessions of 10 minutes each can still make a difference and count towards the total.

However, despite knowing that regular physical activity is good for us – it can be difficult to make the change to lead an active life-style!

Here are some tips to increase your activity level:

• Get off the bus one or two stops earlier and walk the rest of the way.
• Take the stairs instead of the lift.
• Walk short distances instead of driving.
• Speed up the pace of housework to make it more aerobic.
• Exercise with a friend.