You’re never too old or unfit to get gannin’. Just look at me granddad who at 70 decided to take up walking, then he worked up to joggin’ and now
I canna’ keep up with him! Y’ should see his kit, he’s got better trainers than me!

Regular exercise will help you maintain a healthy weight and give you more energy.  It will give you better balance, strength and suppleness which will also help ensure you stay fit in later life.  It will also increase your confidence and self esteem.  It can even be a social activity with family and friends or a way of meeting new friends.

It doesn’t have to be about running miles or pumping heavy weights.
Any increase in activity will be beneficial, but experts reckon that you should aim to build up to at least 30 minutes of moderate activity five or more days a week. But remember to build up slowly – the fitter you get
the more you will be able to do.

So what’s moderate? You should be slightly out of breath during the 30 minutes but still be able to hold a conversation. Moderate activity could
be brisk walking, gardening and swimming.

Remember to build up slowly and slow down gradually, making sure you don’t stop suddenly. A warm up and cool down will let your body recover better and help prevent any aches or pains the next day.

Getting started – why not use the stairs instead of the lift or get off the bus a stop earlier and walk the rest of the way?  Or try going for a walk at lunchtime to clear your mind and get fit

Regular maintenance (once you’re on the road) - choose activities
you enjoy and vary the type of activity you do, so you don’t get bored.  Find a level that suits you and gradually build up the frequency,
intensity and duration.

If you’re thinking of taking up exercise, it’s best to get the GP to give you a check up (just to make sure you haven’t got a leaky gasket or something!)

Your GP is there to help.