Live a healthy lifestyle

Most of us know that exercise is a key part of leading a healthy lifestyle. However many of us may find it difficult to get motivated, either because of time limitations or negative preconceptions.

Exercise doesn't have to feel like exercise

Exercise can consist of hours on a treadmill, or lifting weights in a gym. For some people this is ideal and helps them focus on the activity; however for many people, this is not appealing.

You can experience all the benefits of exercising in a gym, and more, by exploring Kent on foot or by bike.

A gentle walk thorough a country park can burn around 200 calories per hour. Take your family along, and playing with your children while out on a walk can burn 300.

Cycle to work and you could be burning 400 calories an hour.

Exercising in the open air is certainly a cheaper way to gain the benefits of an active lifestyle; you could even save money on transport costs.

Changing your lifestyle to incorporate even the slightest increase in activity could be of real benefit to the health of you and those around you. You could inspire your children or friends to become more active, and could socialise in different ways to save money and have fun while becoming healthier.

Just about losing weight?

Exercise can of course help lose weight, but it can also dramatically reduce your chances of suffering from one of the UK's biggest killer diseases in later life - coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity and cancer of the colon. Exercise can help with sleeplessness, which in turn will help you feel more alert during the day.

Only about physical heath?

Being physically active can support good mental health too, helping you to manage stress, anxiety and even depression. If you look and feel physically fit, you can feel happier about your appearance, and this can boost self confidence.

Just for young people?

It is never too late to start receiving the benefits of an active lifestyle. Exercise as you get older strengthens your muscles, joints and bones as well as helping with mobility (and therefore independence) and balance, important as it helps to prevent falls, which are the leading cause of injury and death for the over 75s.

Carry on reading for more information and practical tips.

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