Maintaining good physical health is as important as good emotional health and helps us to stay resilient and more able to deal with the demands of life. Building exercise and a healthy diet into our daily routines gives us positive feelings from doing something active.

Benefits of physical activity:  

• Builds confidence and improves social skills  

• Strengthens muscles and bones  

• Enhances concentration and learning  

• Helps you feel good and elevates mood  

• Inspires positivity and encourages tolerance  

• Helps to relieve stress and maintain mental and emotional wellbeing  

• Improves sleep and energy levels  

• Reduces the risk of morbidity and mortality from chronic diseases i.e diabetes, heart disease later in life  

• Improves overall health and fitness and helps maintain a healthy weight and prevent childhood obesity 

The NHS recommends that young people aim for at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity per day. This can include:

Cardio and Endurance Activities (Boost Heart & Lung Health)

• Running or Jogging
  
  

• Cycling
  
  

• Swimming

• Hiking / walking  
  
  

Strength and Muscle-Building Activities

• Bodyweight Exercises – Push-ups, sit-ups, planks, and squats help build strength.
  
  

• Resistance Training – Light weights or resistance bands can improve muscle strength.
  
  

• Climbing (Indoor or Outdoor) – Builds strength and coordination while being fun.
  
  
  

Flexibility and Balance Activities

• Yoga or Pilates
  
  

• Dance (Hip-Hop, Ballet, Zumba, etc.)
  
  

• Gymnastics
  
  

Team Sports (Improves Fitness and Social Skills)

• Football
  
  

• Basketball or Netball
  
  

• Rugby
  
  

• Hockey
  
  

• Tennis or Badminton .