Being active

Being active burns calories – so it can help you lose weight. It is also very important if you have lost weight and want to keep it off.

People who are more active tend to have more energy, are less stressed, sleep better and generally feel better. Other benefits include:

• Better health
• Helps tone the body so you look slimmer
• Less stress and more confidence
• You'll be able to keep up with friends and family
• Need not cost anything and can easily become part of your daily routine
• A social and fun way to catch up with friends.

Ready to get moving?

Think about when you can be more active and try doing a combination of different things. Here are some activities that people have found work for them:

• Walking or cycling, maybe to work, to a friend's house or at lunchtime;
• Gardening or DIY;
• Shopping or cleaning the house;
• Taking the stairs instead of the lift and walking up escalators;
• Swimming, cycling or dancing;
• Going to the gym, exercise or aerobic classes; and
• Walking or rambling in the park or in the countryside.

Sports and leisure in Stockport

Sports clubs in Stockport           

How much and how often?

Find ways of increasing your activity which are realistic for you. This doesn't have to mean going to the gym or taking up sport - many people find it suits them better to go for a regular walk or join a dance class. Everyday activity like walking may be the simplest way for you to get moving more. As an adult, you should aim to be active on five or more days of the week.

• Thirty minutes of activity will have general health benefits and improve your fitness.
• Increase activity to at least 60 minutes to help you lose weight and stop the weight going back on.

How hard?

Don't worry, everyone can do something to increase their activity levels, as long as they find what is right and enjoyable for them. It doesn't have to cost money and you don't need to wear special clothes! To really help, the activity you do should be of moderate intensity. This means that your breathing and heartbeat will be a little faster than usual and you will feel warm and may sweat. This sort of activity tones you up, improves your immune system and makes you feel good. Try to make physical activity a way of life - for good. Make it a regular and enjoyable part of your day.

• Build in a walk, for example walking to the bus or train instead of using your car, or getting off the bus one stop earlier.
• Park your car at the far end of the car park as a regular habit.
• Use the stairs instead of a lift or escalators.
• Do activities with your friends and family - it's great fun.