Tejal and Harri’s steps to better health
We all know that moving more is good for you, but taking that first step can be hard - especially if you feel unfit. Getting active doesn’t need to be scary though, and it doesn’t need to cost a thing. It’s about finding an activity you enjoy and getting started. Like many of us, Tejal Tanna, a working mum of two from London, often struggled to find time to be active. But after picking up the odd unhealthy habit in lockdown she wanted to start making some changes. Inspired by her 72-year-old mum who exercises nearly every day, Tejal decided to become more active. “I thought to myself, it really can’t be as hard as it seems,” she says.
“So one day I decided to download the NHS Couch to 5K app - and just went for it!”
Like millions of others, Tejal started her running journey with the NHS Couch to 5K programme, a free app designed to help absolute beginners get running. Guided by the voices of celebrity coaches including Olympic champion Denise Lewis OBE, the app helps users build up their stamina, distance and confidence in running over the course of nine weeks. Now in her third week of the programme, Tejal blocks out time to make sure she doesn’t miss any sessions. “I can usually get it done in 30 minutes,” she says. “So I generally go in the mornings before the kids are up.” Tejal now feels stronger than ever. “I have so much more energy and have even started to run with my kids!” she says. “It’s never too late to improve yourself.”
Like Tejal, Harri Dokia from Essex wasn’t very physically active during lockdown but wanted to do more. After turning 40 she decided to get started; “Every time you hit a birthday milestone you can’t help but think about the future,” she explains, “and that prompted me to think about the steps I could take to live a longer and healthier life.” So when her friends suggested they do the Couch to 5K programme together, she agreed immediately. She has been using the app for the last six months, running with both her husband and friends. “I really recommend doing Couch to 5K with someone; they can help you stay motivated and hold you accountable at the same time!” Harri adds “Couch to 5K was the motivation I needed to start my running journey. It helped me to develop a running routine that suited my lifestyle and I feel happier and more energised.”
“I urge everyone to just put on their trainers and get started!”
Vin Patel, Fitness Trainer, says:
“Being active is good for your body and mind - and even small but regular efforts can bring you benefits. So if you’re thinking about getting more active to improve your health, fitness and well-being, just go for it! Everyone deserves to enjoy the benefits of being active and it’s far easier to get started than people may think.”