How do I get started? New to physical activity and not Active for a while we are here to help!

How do I get started?

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Knowing where to start can often be the hardest bit about getting active. With lots of activities on offer throughout Essex, Southend and Thurrock it can be a little daunting. People often think that getting active means taking part in organised sport, but this isn't always the case! Whether you're making small life changes, like walking to the local shops or improving your strength and balance, it all adds up and will leave you feeling so much better in yourself. It's a simple way to create a new healthy habit!

I am a complete beginner, don't do any physical activity and have no idea where to start

Don’t worry, you’re definitely not on your own – one in four people in Essex do less than 30 minutes of activity per week. It’s important to remember to start off slowly and build your level of activity up over time and go at your own pace. It’s easy to compare yourself to others, but what’s important to remember is we are all different, and Find Your Active is all about finding the activity that is right for you!

Our community connectors are in most communities in Essex, Southend and Thurrock, ready to help support you in finding your active and helping you initially. You can find all their details here.

First steps could be to try out an activity for free, online via our YouTube channel by one of our many fun and trusted instructors, from the comfort of your own home. There are over 200 videos to help give you a flavour of what’s available and will enable you to find out what activity could be for you! Visit the channel here.

Or, if you’d like to download some exciting resources to help you get moving, click here.

The NHS provides some fantastic support resources to help you find your way. Perhaps explore their website here.

I used to be active but have recently lost my motivation

We know that sometimes, life just gets in the way and this can have an impact on our active lifestyle. We’ve seen over the past year, just how much Covid has affected our activity levels and mental wellbeing. But as we’re starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel, perhaps now is the time to get back into it.

There are plenty of ‘back-to’ sports available in Essex, Southend and Thurrock, if that’s what your after, or you could explore the other opportunities available in your local area. Take a look at our activity finder here. Or if you need a little helping hand in getting back in to the swing of it, contact one of our ambassadors or community connectors who can help support you. Find their details here.

As life can be very busy, the NHS have some great resources on how to lead an active lifestyle when this is the case. Visit their page here.

I am living with a disability/ health condition and I know physical activity will benefit me, but I don't know what I can do safely

More moving when living with a long-term health condition or disability, can be a little scary. However, physical activity is inclusive and we have many opportunities throughout the county for everyone to enjoy safely. Taking part in physical activity can deliver positive outcomes which benefit other aspects of your lives, not just your physical health, but your mental wellbeing too.

Not only can you find lots of inclusive activities on activity finder (these are stipulated by being accessible and inclusive), there are a number of organisations across the county that deliver fully inclusive sessions for those living with particular health conditions or disabilities. Please see a few below:

The Sport England, We Are Undefeatable campaign also has some amazing resources and links with leading long-term health charities. See their website here.

I am already physically active but would like to find other opportunities

Sometimes we just want to try something different! Our activity finder showcases lots of activities from across the county, so check out some of the opportunities available near you!

If you are staff from NHS, NELFT, ACUTE, Local Authority, CVS, EPUT you can join our free sessions in our calendar, Calendar of Activities | Basildon and Brentwood Active Alliance | MSE Virtual Views (ics.nhs.uk)

If you want to find out more please email maria.medina5@nhs.net