Helpful tools and services
Digital tools
Living in a digital age has many benefits when it comes to increasing your activity levels. You can now get a full-body workout without buying any equipment, having a gym membership or even leaving the comfort of your own home!
Apps
Whether you’re just starting out on your fitness journey, or you want to take your training to the next level, there’s an app for you.
Here’s a couple from the NHS that will help you get started:
A running programme for absolute beginners, Couch to 5K has helped millions of people like you start running.
The app:
- has a choice of 5 trainers to motivate you
- works with your music player
- tracks your runs
- connects you with other Couch to 5K runners
You can download it in the App store or Google Play.
The Active 10 app anonymously records every minute of walking you do. Just pop your phone in your pocket and away you go!
The app:
- tracks your steps
- helps you set goals
- shows you your achievements
- gives you tips to boost your activity
You can download it in the App store or Google Play.
Websites
The NHS website also has some training plans and exercise videos that you can download to get you started with different activities, gym-free exercises, 10-minute workouts and a strength and flex plan.
YouTube is also a fantastic resource for every possible exercise video you can think of! Whether you want a yoga class, do a dance workout or to tone up specific parts, you’ll find a video for it.
Local services
You can search for local fitness activities and classes running in your area through the NHS website.
It’s also worth contacting your local authority as many offer initiatives with leisure centres such as free exercise classes or a free swim on certain days of the week to encourage people to get fit.
Many authorities also have outdoor gyms or basketball, football or tennis courts that can be used free of charge. You may also be entitled to free leisure services if you’re under 16, over 60 or receive benefits. To find your local council and see what initiatives they offer click here.
Click below to see details of some community based activities:
Many councils support local walking groups which are a great way of getting out, meeting new people and becoming more active. Have a look at your local council website to find out what groups are available in your area.
Parkruns are free, weekly, community events all around the world. Saturday morning events are 5k and take place in parks and open spaces. On Sunday mornings, there are 2k junior parkruns for children aged four to 14.
Parkrun is a positive, welcoming and inclusive experience where there is no time limit and no one finishes last. Everyone is welcome to come along, whether you walk, jog, run, volunteer or watch. Have a look at their website to see if a parkrun is available near you.
Our Parks is an initiative to bring free group exercise classes, led by experienced and fully qualified instructors to parks near you in partnership with Councils and Local Authorities. The classes are designed for all ability levels and ages and take place in various locations across England.
To find out if there are any free classes running in your area, have a look at the Our Parks website.
Are there are any apps or platforms that have helped you become more active? Maybe you’ve tried couch to 5k and want to share your experience? We’d love to hear what worked for you and for you to share any advice with others in the comments box below!
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