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Contact UsOne in four people live with at least one long-term health condition – you are not alone, we are here to support you. Being active reduces the risk of developing some conditions by up to 40 per cent and the severity of many health conditions.
Long-term conditions include:
- Depression and anxiety
- Cognitive functioning in Dementia and Alzheimer’s
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD)
- Asthma
- Heart disease, stroke and other heart conditions
- Breast, lung, prostate or bowel cancer
- Arthritis and back pain
- Types 1 and 2 diabetes
- Multiple sclerosis and other mobility-limiting conditions
LynView full storyI was diagnosed with fibromyalgia four years ago followed by PTSD and depression last year. I knew I had to do something to help myself deal with these challenges. Then I discovered that I actually enjoy exercise!
Ways to Move
When it comes to finding ways to move, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. In fact, there are many, many ways to be active, including some that people may not realise actually count.
Building Activity into Daily Life
Getting active doesn't need to be about joining a local sports club or even running a 10k. It can just be about doing things that fit into your existing routine, as and when you can.
Every way you get moving genuinely matters. Taking the stairs; walking to and from the shops; parking further from work, or getting off a stop early on the bus all add up. Many of these tweaks to your routine can be part of your daily life. Little changes add up to make big differences, such as getting on your feet during a TV ad break or stretching while making a cup of tea.
These little changes can make a big impact in the long term. Tools like the Active 10 app can help you track how much brisk walking you've integrated into your routine. Finding little ways to move more allows you to go about your day pretty much as usual – while still feeling the benefits of moving more.
Martin’s story
Martin's first warning sign was his diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. The second was his diagnosis of Vasculitis (GPA), a rare long-term condition causing restriction of the blood vessels. He was inspired to start a daily walk from his home in Poole to Bournemouth beach in back, a 5km round trip. Having recently completed his 100th consecutive daily walk; he has lost 2.5 stone, has his blood sugar levels under control and was able to stop his initial treatment of vasculitis early.
MartinView full storyA combination of the exercise and diet has come together and is working really well.
Finding an activity that works for you
Here are some ideas and resources to find your getting active happy place.
Your next step to LiveWell
We're here for you! Are you ready to take steps to healthy living? Register today, or get in touch with with us.
LynView full storyJust do it! Surround yourself with people who are on your side - you'll find many of those people in Our LiveWell.
We Are Undefeatable
We Are Undefeatable is a major new campaign launched to support the 15 million people who live with one or more long-term health condition in England. It's working with 15 leading health and social care charities to inspire and support those with long-term health conditions build physical activity into their lives. We Are Undefeatable Open in a new window aims to help those with conditions such as diabetes, cancer, arthritis and Parkinson’s to build physical activity into their lives.