Slough Borough Council

Health Action - Slough

Health Action Slough is a major initiative involving health services, Slough Borough Council, local businesses, voluntary and community groups and individuals. Health Action Slough aims to improve the health of people living and working in Slough.

Here is Health Action Slough's quick guide to getting more active.

Why get active?

You don’t have to be an Olympic athlete to be active. Getting active simply means doing the things you usually do, but in a way that uses a bit more energy. Getting active will give you greater stamina, stronger muscles, lower risk of heart disease and stroke, reduced risk of osteoporosis (brittle bones), improved posture and a better shape and appearance. Living an active lifestyle can also help you to feel more energetic, more relaxed and better about yourself.

Making physical activity part of your life

Whether you are young, old, out at work all day, or at home with the children, try to make physical activity part of your daily routine. Here are some suggestions:

Young adult

• Check out your leisure centre and join an exercise class
• Join a local club or team
• Try cycling, swimming, jogging or walking
• Don’t forget dancing - a night on the dance floor can use as much energy as a workout

Working 9 to 5

• Make time for your activity during your lunch break or at the end of the day
• Avoid using the lift, take the stairs instead
• Get off the bus or train a stop earlier and walk the last mile
• Cycle to work

Looking after children

• Go for brisk walks with the pram
• Some leisure centres have crèches. Children will be cared for while you go for a swim or use the gym
• Take the whole family swimming after school

Retirement

Retirement brings new freedom and the opportunity to use your time to do things you really enjoy. Taking part in physical activity is a great way to stay healthy.

Safety first

Are you fit enough to start exercising? Most people are, and could start to increase their level of physical activity immediately. If you are worried about becoming more active or you have certain medical conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity, bone or joint problems consult your GP first.

This information has been used with the kind permission of NHS Direct, the 24 Hour Nurse led helpline. For further details on healthy lifestyles visit the NHS Direct's website or call 0845 4647.