Most of us know some form of regular physical activity is important to our health.

Even moderate activity can help maintain your overall health and wellbeing, help manage your weight, help keep your bones, muscles and joints healthy and even help you to feel good.

The problem lies in getting enough exercise, partly because of other demands on our time and partly because of the ‘push button’ culture we live in that takes the hard work out of so many everyday tasks.

To begin feeling the benefits, you don’t have to throw yourself into high impact exercise at the gym. There are plenty of ways you can gradually increase your levels of physical activity in your normal day-to-day life:

• Go for a brisk walk
• Do a little window shopping; even walking around the shopping centre can help increase your activity levels a little
• Use the stairs instead of the lift or escalators
• Get off the bus a stop early and walk home
• Walk children to school instead of driving
• Take children and pets for walks in the park
• Have some fun at a dance class

The only rule is to be as active as possible, as often as you can, whenever you can. As a guide, you should aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity such as walking, swimming, housework or gardening every day.

Gradually increase the intensity of your exercise when you feel ready. If you need some help with exercise ideas or have questions about how long you should exercise for or how to reach your specific individual goals, contact an exercise specialist or personal trainer, or talk to the staff at your local gym. If you have any health issues or don’t usually exercise remember to check with your Doctor first.