Heart Research UK tips on how to keep active
Heart Research UK says that regular physical activity is associated with a reduced risk of chronic conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes as well as improving mental health. Even small increases in physical activity can positively impact on health.
Heart Research UK have provided these tips to help people keep active:
- Avoid long periods of inactivity – Set a timer for specific times throughout the day to prompt you to do 10+ minutes of physical activity. People can include a variety of light, moderate and vigorous activities. E.g. a brisk walk, sit-ups, weight-lifting, gardening or housework.
- Reduce screen time for kids – It is common for young people to spend too much time sitting in front of a screen. They advise talking to children about the importance of staying active and agree on a set amount of screen time each day/week and schedule in some time for getting active.
- Don’t be a couch potato – Rather than spending evenings sitting on the sofa, they suggest trying a few gentle exercises, such as leg raises, while watching a TV show. Try opening YouTube and searching for a quick 10- or 20-minute workout video.
- Change your daily commute – Now that many of us are heading back to the workplace, Heart Research UK have suggested finding other modes of transport than driving. If you do need to drive to work, they suggest parking a little further away in order to get some valuable steps in.
Other tips and ways to keep your heart healthy
Heart Research UK have a sign up for weekly healthy tips: www.heartresearch.org.uk/healthy-tips
Healthy Heart recipes are available on the Heart Research UK website: heartresearch.org.uk/heart-research-uk-recipes
