Physical activity and exercise can also help you to:

• lose weight, especially fat

• lower your heart rate and blood pressure so your heart doesn’t have to work so hard

• reduce risk of heart diseas and improve circulation

• reduced risk of falls and injuries from falls in older people

• improve feeling of well being, reduce stress and feel more relaxed due to release of endorphins

• improve concentration and focus increase energy levels

• improve quality of sleep decrease anxiety and depression. -

People take up exercise for many reasons:

• For enjoyment – if you don’t know what you might enjoy, try a few different things

• For social reasons - The companionship involved can be just as important as the physical activity

• For the psychological benefits - it can help you to feel more competent, or capable and give you a sense of control over your life For physical health benefits

• It can also help to boost your self confidence.

Exercise doesn’t have to mean leggings, lycra, gyms or aerobics. There are many other ways to increase your activity levels.

• Walking is free. - Take the dog to make it more interesting or take part in an organised walking group

• Park at the far end of the car park

• Get off the bus one stop earlier and walk

• Use stairs instead of escalators or lifts

• Exercise with others to make it more fun and sociable

• Take part in more structured exercise

• Try a new hobby like gardening or DIY