Physical Activity at Home

Regular physical activity is very important for staying healthy. It has many physical and mental health benefits including reducing feelings of stress and anxiety, which many of us will be feeling at the moment. Physical activity includes all forms of activity where you move your body. It includes exercise or sport such as cycling or running, but it also includes things like, dance, gardening and even housework. Whatever your starting point, doing a bit more activity will help combat social isolation and anxiety. 

Break up sitting time

• Stand (if you are able) at least every hour. You can set reminders, (using your mobile phone or another device such as an Amazon Alexa) or get up when the adverts come on the TV. You could keep a notepad next to you and record when you have done this.

Household chores

• Household chores and everyday activities can help keep you physically active. Walk to get water or a hot drink regularly, throw some clothes in the washing machine, do the dishes, dust, vacuum, feed the birds or tidy – these can all be a good source of physical activity.

Dance

• Dance to your favourite music and even incorporate this into daily living tasks. Try doing a dance while walking into the dining room or the toilet or even dance with your arms and feet while still seated.

Move more

• Move more by combining every other time you stand up with walking laps around your house or marching on the spot. If you have more than one toilet in your house, you could use the one furthest from where you are sitting. If you have stairs, you could include them in your lap of the house.

Play

• Play active games with your family or pets. For example throwing/catching balls/balloons or target games e.g throwing balls or beanbags into a basket.

Use technology

• Things like mobile apps can be very useful to give examples of exercises you can do and track your activity levels. You and your friends & family can encourage each other to be more active via telephone, text or social media.