The benefits of being active

by Former Member

Thursday 8th January 2015

Runny man

If you’re serious about getting healthy this year, add in some physical activities – we talk about the benefits this could have on your 2016.

It can be quite hard to find the motivation to get up and be active, particularly when it’s so cold! But there are so many benefits to just getting up and doing something. Physical activities can have a big impact on things like your mental health and your confidence. Extra benefits include:

Improved mood
Better sleep
Increased energy levels
Reduced stress and anxiety levels
Weight loss

Proof it works

Research from the Mental Health Foundation found that exercise releases chemicals in your brain that make you feel good – this can boost your self-esteem, allowing you to concentrate more, as well as get a good night’s sleep.

The research produced by MHF showed that participation in regular physical activity can increase how you feel about yourself whilst reducing stress and anxiety. Physical activity can help play a role in preventing mental health problems and improve the quality of life of those experiencing it. For example, it can approximately lower your risk of having depression and dementia by 20–30% – add it into your life and you’ll feel the instant benefits.

What can I do?

You don’t need to pay out loads for a gym membership or wake up ridiculously early for a cold morning jog. There are many other ways to be active which in turn help to improve your mental health.

The list of activities are endless, such as dance, gardening, following keep fit videos at home, badminton, martial arts, rock climbing, even doing house chores like hoovering count. These are just a few examples of physical activity. Sounds less scary than you think, right? Find out ways to keep fit on a tight budget on TheSite.org, the digital charity we have recently merged with.

What are my options?

There are many clubs available, such as the Good Energy Club’s – for people with mental health needs in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames. Targeted at all fitness levels – it’s a great way to try new things, meet new people and ultimately to be a better, happier you!

There’s also the GoodGym which helps you get fit by doing good. They’re a group of runners that combine regular exercise with helping the community.

If you or someone you know is feeling low and in need of someone to talk to, TheMix.org.uk has a variety of chats, forums and blogs for whatever issue you’re facing. Alternatively GetConnected are here every day from 11am – 11pm. We’re here to listen, we won’t judge you and we’ll talk you through your options so you can figure out your next steps.

This post was originally part of the Get Connected website. YouthNet and Get Connected merged to form The Mix in 2016.