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Keeping physically active is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.  Exercise has been shown to improve your mental as well as your physical health.

Some of the benefits of taking part in regular exercise include:

• lower risk of coronary heart disease
• stronger heart
• lower risk of cancer
• preservation of bone density
• reduced blood pressure
• reduced body weight
• reduced risk of diabetes
• improved aerobic fitness
• reduced stress and improved moods - exercise improves the mood, reduces anxiety and combats the symptoms of pre-menstrual tension.

Exercise doesn’t just mean going to the gym – gardening, walking, cycling and tidying the house all count as exercise.  The government recommends doing 30 minutes of exercise most days but this doesn’t have to be done all at once. Break down your exercise into 10 minute slots and you’ll find it a lot easier to achieve your 30 minutes a day.

The NHS provides a range of information about getting active through a number of different outlets - from GP practices and health centres to schools, healthy living centres and children’s centres. Ask your GP or health professional for advice if you are concerned about your health and fitness and they will point you to the right services. Alternatively you can visit the NHS Choices website for further information on how to live a healthy life.

What's available locally to help me get active?

If you live in the west of the city (Benwell, Scotswood) there is now a website that provides comprehensive information on physical activity and sport in your area - Activities West.

Newcastle City Council has a physical activity team which develops and promotes local opportunities for physical activity. If you would like some advice on suitable activities or information on what’s on in your area contact your local physical activity co-ordinator on: 0191 278 3184 or 85.

If you are on benefits, have a disability or are retired you can join a healthy living centre to help you to get active. Healthy living centres are based in the community and support people to become healthier and lead a more active lifestyle. Find out more.

Community health trainers are helping people in disadvantaged areas of the city to get fitter and healthier. The trainers are people who live in your local community who support people to make healthier choices in their lifestyles. Find out more.