How much should I be doing?

When you’re getting started it’s generally advisable to discuss how much activity you should be doing with your GP; the professional advice they give you will be based on your current fitness level, any health condition you may have, your age and weight, and your own personal objectives.

However, at a minimum, you should be aiming to do at least 30 minute of moderate-intensity physical activity on 5 or more days of the week; which could either be the frequency you work towards or use as a starting block with a view to increasing.

If 30 minutes all at once seems a little too much for you, why not break it down and build it up:

• Why not start by trying to do 5 minutes, three times a day - at a level that suits you
• Gradually build up the time and frequency until 30 minutes feels easier (for example, if you are walking you could to start walk faster or go uphill)
• Once it feels easier, try working harder during those 30 minutes
• As you get fitter, you’ll find it easier and you’ll be able to do more and more

Remember, regular moderate intensity activity is much better for you than occasional vigorous bursts.

If you are already regularly exercising you can still benefit by getting even more active because, generally, the more active you are the healthier and happier you will become.

Moderate intensity means you’re exercising hard enough to be breathing more heavily than normal and you become slightly warmer – but, you should still be able to talk and exercise at the same time.