Invest in your health as you age

We're living longer – and with the right choices, we can also live better. As well as helping you feel good and enjoy life now, moving more can boost your long-term health and independence.

What are the benefits of moving more?

Moving more has a huge range of health benefits. Here are just a few of them:

• You'll find day-to-day activities easier – whether that's carrying shopping or climbing the stairs.
• You'll notice your sleep improving and you'll feel more energised.
• You'll find that your mood improves – particularly after exercise as your body releases endorphins ('feel good' hormones).

But it isn't just about the health benefits. Trying a new sport or activity can be a great way to make new friends, explore your local area and just have fun!

Find a sport or activity

How do I get started?

The best place to start is to think about the kind of sport or activity you might enjoy. Not all of us want to head out for a run or hit the gym – but the good news is that there are all sorts of other things to try.

It could help to consider the following questions:

• Would you prefer to do something social or solo?
• Is there a particular kind of fitness you want to improve – for example, balance, strength or endurance?
• What's your current level of activity like – are you used to regular exercise or are you starting from scratch?

It's far easier to stick with something new if you enjoy doing it, so make having fun a top priority when you're getting started.

5 top tips to feel more confident

If you feel anxious or self-conscious about trying a sport or activity, you're far from alone. Here are our top tips for boosting your confidence.

1. Start small. Easy 10-minute sessions still count and build momentum when you're getting started.
2. Celebrate your progress. There's so much to celebrate when you start moving more, from feeling fitter to sleeping better.
3. Try a beginner session. You don't have to jump into the deep end. Why not see if a local group offers introductory sessions? As well as being suited to a beginner level, these groups are often very fun and social.
4. Remember that everyone was a beginner once. It doesn't matter what other people are doing – you can progress at your own level.
5. Try a couple of different things. It's easier to stick with something if it's fun, so it's worth trying a few options to find something you feel comfortable with.