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Help yourself by moving more

It may seem as if our chances to stay active have reduced radically since coronavirus emerged given changing rules and restrictions (see some of the latest Government advice), but there’s still lots we can do to keep fit.

Whatever our age or ability, finding safe ways to move more – and importantly shed any excess weight which is a proven risk factor– is something that we can all do to lessen the impact of the virus. Keeping active is proven to help both physical and mental health.

Just remember, if you have any of the three main symptoms (temperature, continuous cough or loss of smell), don't mix with others and arrange a test online or call 119 straightaway.  Even if you're not COVID-19 positive, resting completely will speed your recovery from whatever bug you've got.

workout with 4 legged friend

Join the Movement and get active

Whether you're able to get outside or are looking for an exercise that you can do indoors, making a conscious decision to move more will help you feel better - whatever your age or ability.

Join the Movement from Sport England lists plenty of free and paid-for services AND has the latest advice on the rules around mixing with others for exercise. It's a one-stop shop for those wanting to to boost their wellbeing by mixing it up and trying something different.

Join the Movement

two people cycling through forest

Feel better: grab some green

Any movement helps but getting outside for our exercise fix gives us fresh air and boosts our mood. So if you can dodge the rain, go out for a walk, jog, or hop on a bike. Plan your route to avoid narrow paths and popular destinations where social distancing can be tricky.

If working from home, give your day some structure by scheduling some time outside, even if it’s a quick 15 min walk at lunchtime or simply taking the kids to school. Talking of children, make sure you all agree some screen-free activities for them too (Chief Medical Officer guidelines suggest young people should be active for at least 60 minutes a day).

Whatever you do, ensure you all wash your hands as soon as you get back inside.

We've listed a few of the easiest and most popular (free!) ways to get active below, but check out the NHS Better Health website for more ideas

  • Brisk walking is a great form of exercise. Join almost a million people who've downloaded the Active 10 app from Public Health England and hit those deserted streets, or take to wide open spaces like the Surrey Hills.
  • You know that resolution you think about starting every January, where you take up running? Now's the ideal time - hundreds of thousands have downlaoded the Couch to 5k app in recent months.
  • Try hopping on your bike for a local ride (just do the NHS a favour and wear a helmet). If you need some advice, a good place to start is the Bikeability website.   

If you have a bit more time on your hands and any local restrictions allow, try a longer walk like those in the Surrey Collection. The hub on the Ordnance Survey Get Outside site also has hundreds of ideas linked to walking, cycling, climbing... and tips for family activities like den building.

Don't feel in the right mood?

Even at the best of times it can be difficult to motivate ourselves, but  scheduling some time to stay active everyday really will help. If you're feeling low or worried, or are concerned for your children, check out NHS Every Mind Matters for advice on boosting mental wellbeing.

If you want to take part in some free online exercise classes especially created to help you lift your mood or just have contact with others in the local area, visit Surrey Virtual Wellbeing. 

Keep up to date

Follow us on social media to be kept up to date with any C-19 developments relating to sport, as well as our latest news and ideas that will help you #StayActive. Don’t forget to let us know what you're up to by tagging us on one of our channels too - we may even repost your news.