What are 7 tips to stay active?
Top tips to get active
1. Enjoy it!
If you enjoy it, you are more likely to keep it up. Better still, try an activity you can enjoy with family or friends. Don’t be afraid of trying new things. Was there a sport you did years ago that you’d like to start again?
2. Start slow
Doing just a little bit more than you did before will still make a difference. So build up gradually and give your body time to adapt as your muscles strengthen. If you have any medical conditions, do speak to your health care team before starting any new activity.
3. Make small changes
Walking is a free and simple way to improve your fitness. Beat the traffic and leave the car at home for small trips or get off the bus or train one or two stops earlier and walk the rest of the way. Why not use your lunch break to go for a walk or take the stairs instead of the escalator? 10 minutes of brisk walking every day can make a big difference to your health. Get some tips from the NHS and find out about the Active 10.
4. Set goals for yourself
You’re more likely to stick to your more active life if you set goals. Set realistic short-term and long-term targets, keep an exercise diary and tick off your achievements – you’ll be amazed at the improvement and progress you’ll see. When you reach a goal, treat yourself for your hard work.
5. Variety is the spice of life
Once you are fitter and exercising regularly, shake it up a bit and vary your routine. Try swapping cycling on an exercise bike for cycling outdoors or try a new class at the gym. If you are starting a new activity check with your health care team to see how this will affect your diabetes.
6. Make it social
Instead of meeting friends for a coffee or in the pub, why not suggest doing something active? You could start a walking club, go gardening, play tennis, golf…. or hit the dancefloor.
7. Don’t give up
Although your body benefits as soon as you become more active, you may not see all the benefits straight away as it can time for your body to adapt to the activity. So stick with it and you’ll soon see the positive results.
