How to be more physically active

Being active, like healthy eating, requires some thought each day and should be a regular part of every day life no matter what age you are.  Every little extra effort adds up to making a real difference to health and wellbeing.  The best way to get started is to find an activity or sport which you enjoy, is convenient and affordable.  If you have children, try looking for activities which you can do together.  Exercising with friends provides company and motivation.  In addition incorporate as much incidental activity into your day as you can (such as taking the stairs instead of the lift).

Here are some ideas to help get more activity into your day:

• Take the dog for regular walks.  If you don't have a dog, consider offering to walk a neighbour's dog!
• If possible, walk or cycle with your children to school
• Consider different activities such as playing golf, badminton or tai-chi
• Do gardening or vigorous housework
• While watching television, do stretching exercises
• Get off the bus or train one stop earlier and walk the rest of the way, or consider riding a bike.  Here are some more ideas from Travelsmart to help select healthier travel options in Western Australia
• Start a walking group with work colleagues during your lunch break
• Go and talk to your colleagues instead of calling or sending an email
• Try using a pedometer to keep count of how far you've walked. Aim to get at least 10,000 steps or more a day
• Try different walking locations to keep it interesting
• Train for an event, such as the City to Surf.  This is great for motivation!

For more tips on increasing your physical activity visit the Find Thirty^(R)everyday website.