Tips to keep fit and well as more people exercise
Some three in 10 people have begun new activities to boost fitness and wellbeing since the start of the pandemic, research shows.
Among the many ways that people have chosen to improve their general health and mood are walking outside more (49 per cent), healthy eating (32 per cent), baking or cooking (25 per cent), online workout classes (24 per cent), learning a new skill (21 per cent), and outdoor workouts (17 per cent).
One age group, the over55s, chose to walk outside more than younger groups (63 per cent), while a third have taken up healthy eating (35 per cent) and an eighth have started online workout classes.
Benefits experienced include better mental wellbeing (39 per cent), improved health generally (38 per cent), a sense of enjoyment (32 per cent) and weight loss (25 per cent).
Over all, 91 per cent of participants said they experienced significant health benefits.
Paul Morgan, managing director of operations at Audley Villages, who conducted the research, said: “With people being told to stay at home over the last year, it’s been easy to lose motivation.
“However, being active is integral for both your physical and mental health and the power of exercise should never be underestimated. It is, therefore, brilliant to see more people engaging in fitness and wellness activities as now, more than ever, we need to be kind to ourselves and look after our bodies.
“Over 55s especially have set the example by walking, working out and eating healthily.
“As we get older it becomes even more important to look after our wellbeing to ensure we can live healthy lives for as long as possible. It is generally recommended that older age groups exercise twice a week and do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity”.
He continued: “Lockdown hasn’t stopped our property owners who want to learn about wellness and keep active
during the pandemic. They’ve been taking part in everything from regular virtual workout classes to chef masterclasses and the 810 mile Audley trek challenge.”
Kevin Airs, general manager at Audley Clevedon, lists his top wellness and fitness tips for any age group as follows;
Get a good night’s sleep: Never underestimate sleep as a lack of it can negatively impact your mental health and cognitive performance. Create a sustainable sleep schedule and stick to it.
Download wellness resources: Apps such as Headspace help subscribers to practise wellness techniques through guided meditation. Find some time in your day and make it your designated relaxation hour.
Get Active: Exercise is known as the best form of medication for a reason.
Yoga, for example, is exercise
that can help keep not only your body healthy but your mind also. It emphasises breath awareness and relaxation, so is also an effective wellness practice.
Go outside: Go for a walk around your neighbourhood, get some exercise and feel inspired. Looking at the same four walls every day can be detrimental to your health.
Eat well: Healthy eating and staying hydrated is important for well-being, body function and can improve your mood. While all foods can be enjoyed in moderation, eating less healthy foods in excess can make you feel sluggish and unmotivated.
Do something new: Always try to push yourself to try different activities.
Start a new hobby or do something you’ve always wanted to try. Injecting a bit of excitement in to your day is a great way to look after yourself.