Top tips for getting and staying active
As we enjoy the freedom of being together again, now is a fantastic time to introduce more activity into your life. As well as a number of health benefits, regular activity can give you more energy, confidence and improve your posture too.
Here are some top tips from Slimming World’s most active members on how to bring exercise into your routine and beyond…
Slimming World’s Miss Slinky 2021 Tansy Arnett, 29, who has lost 7st 1lb, advises starting out by
taking small steps
“I was quite reluctant to start including activity in my week but as I lost weight and my confidence grew, I took advantage of Slimming World’s Body Magic activity programme, which helps you build up your activity gradually. “I started with the Couch to 5K app and with each session, I became more confident and could feel myself getting mentally and physically stronger.
“Being more active has made me more motivated to stay on track with my weight-loss goals. I have more energy to run around with my kids now too!”
Do it together, says Reema Reid, 58, from South London, who has
lost 3st 6lb
“Trying a new activity can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be with the right support.
“I joined my local gym with my daughter and we’ve tried classes and workouts together.
“Not only is it a fun activity to try together, but it’s also a great way to keep each other motivated. Getting active has inspired me to learn how to swim too.”
Slimming World Magazine cover star Samantha Rose, 42, who has lost 1st 11lb, says: Do what you love
“I love running with my friends from the group and having the support has been great motivation. “Creating a chart to track my progress and receiving my Body Magic awards for each stage completed are great reminders of how far I’ve come and just how much I’ve achieved.
“Exercise doesn’t have to be gruelling. Finding an activity you love, whether that be walking, gardening, dancing or even hula hooping, means you’ll be more likely to stick to it.”
Helen Hackett, 49, from Oxfordshire, who has lost 4st 7lb, recommends tracking your progress
“Having a visual reminder of your long-term goal is a great motivation-booster. I use the Slimming World app to track my activity and record my weight-loss milestones.
“I’ve gone from having limited mobility to going on walks with the family, hiking up mountains and more.
“Being able to see the amazing progress I’m making, has also helped to keep me inspired and committed.”
■■If you plan to start a new activity programme, Slimming World recommends you check with your GP first – especially if you have an existing health condition, such as high blood pressure, diabetes or asthma. If you’re pregnant, check the suitability of the activity with your midwife.