Health and Fitness Tips

Life is busy, and fitting in exercise can be tough right?  It's especially hard if you think fitness requires special clothing or a trip to the gym. But it’s worth the effort – as well as making you happier, there’s evidence that regular physical activity can protect you from everything from obesity to Alzheimer’s. The truth is, it doesn’t have to be that hard. Our Leisure Club Team have recommended the following five simple changes to help you get in better shape - away from the gym.

[1] Henry says take the stairs. Lifts may go up — but they don't make your heart rate climb. Take the stairs when you can, even if it's just for a floor or two. Stair climbing can lead to better heart and lung function; healthier bones, muscles and joints; and a slimmer figure.

[2] Marlene recommends walking more. Sometimes overlooked as a form of exercise, walking briskly can help you build stamina, burn excess calories and make your heart healthier. Park further away from your destination, get off the bus or train a few stops earlier, stroll to the shops, walk and talk on the phone or stretch your legs at lunch time.

[3] Nico suggests standing up more. Sitting down puts your body in neutral – it constricts circulation, slows your metabolism, shuts off muscles and tightens your connective tissues. Standing is effective in burning calories, boosting blood circulation and tackling low blood pressure. Standing up basically encourages movement and fidgeting.

[4] May challenges you to the 10-minute squat every day. The goal of this challenge is to sit at the bottom of a squat, unassisted, for a total of 10 minutes. Sound like a long time? It is, but to improve squat mobility and reverse the negative effects of sitting for hours, you need to be able to spend a significant amount of time in this highly functional and natural position.

[5] Chloe recommends sitting on the floor when watching TV. Modern sofa technology has advanced to the point where you can remain essentially motionless through an entire Great British Bake Off episode. If you sit on the floor for exactly the same show you’ll be squirming, stretching, changing position and generally keeping your vital systems online before you even hit the first ad break.