Let’s get physical
Our bodies and minds need exercise to function well, prevent weight gain and to keep our spirits up during this challenging time.
Exercise can help our immune system stay strong, be less susceptible to infection and better able to recover.
Any activity is better than none at all. The more activity you can plan into your day, the more physical and mental health benefits you will experience.
Easy exercise and gentle movements
Try to sit less
Take breaks from sitting in front of a smartphone or TV every 30 minutes and take a two minute walk around the house.
Use the stairs
Stair climbing is an extremely time-efficient way to maintain fitness and as little as three 20 seconds fast stair climbs a day can significantly improve fitness levels.
Go for a walk
Try to get out once a day, to get some fresh air and break up your routine. It’s a low impact form of exercise, helps to reduce excess body fat, reduces stress and improves your mental wellbeing.
Chair exercises
Visit the Later Life Training website to access their chair exercise booklet.
Improve your strength and balance
Visit the NHS website for some gentle exercises designed to improve your strength and balance.
Fit for life
For more information on leading a healthier lifestyle and for exercise options in your local area check out Fit For Life (PDF 21.6Mb).
Other types of exercise
If you are able, you could try the following:
- Cycling - Cycling can increase fitness, muscle strength and flexibility as well as decreasing stress levels.
- Pilates/workouts - Davina McCall is offering everyone free access for 30 days to a variety of workouts and Pilates. Visit OYGDavina on Facebook or the Own Your Goals Davina website to sign up.
- Keep fit - Joe Wicks the Body Coach is offering a fantastic variety of keep fit routines on YouTube no matter your age or fitness levels.
- Workout at home - East Ayrshire Leisure are offering free workouts suitable for all fitness levels. Sign up on their website.
- Couch to 5K - Get some running tips on the NHS website.
- Fitness classes - Try some live online fitness classes on KA Leisure's Facebook page.
- Dance the COVID-19 blues away - Dancing is an excellent way to protect the heart and maintain fitness so dance like no-one is watching! Go to ‘ Dance Yourself Happy on Facebook for some online classes. Or try Dancing with Darcie Bussell on the DDMIX for Schools Twitter.