Find ways to be active

Being active doesn’t have to mean going to a gym or playing sport.

The best activity is one that works for your life and that you don’t mind doing regularly

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Find something you enjoy

Being active looks different for everyone.

These links can help you find activities that suit your interests, ability and routine.

Walking

Walking is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve your health. Regular walking supports heart health, strengthens muscles, boosts your mood and energy, and can help with weight management. 

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Wellbeing Walks

Free, organised group walks across Suffolk.

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Discover Suffolk

Your guide to Walking, Cycling and Riding in Suffolk.

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parkwalk / parkrun

Free weekly, community events where you can walk, jog, or run.

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Active 10

Active 10 is a free NHS walking tracker app

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Suffolk Walking Festival

Each May and June explore Suffolk with this festival.

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National Landscapes

Explore two designated national landscapes in Suffolk

Running

Running can be a great way to build your fitness, improve your stamina and support your overall health, but there’s no need to rush into it. If you’re new to running, returning after a break, or simply want to protect your joints while your fitness improves, starting gradually is the best approach.

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Couch to 5K

Couch to 5K is a free, beginner running plan

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parkrun / parkwalk

Free weekly, community events where you can walk, jog, or run.

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RunTogether

Find fun, friendly, safe and inclusive running opportunities.

Cycling

Cycling is a gentle way to become more active and can be built into your daily routine. You could start with short, easy bike rides and gradually increase the time or distance as you feel more comfortable.

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Suffolk Onboard

Find free cycling maps to discover Suffolk’s hidden gems

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Discover Suffolk

A guide to getting outdoors in Suffolk on a bike.

Bicycle leaning against a fence with the sea in the background

Cycling activities

Find free cycling activities from The Way To Go Suffolk. 

Exercise at home

Exercising at home is a simple and flexible way to add more movement to your day. You do not need lots of space or special equipment to get started.

 

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Everyone Active

Online workouts and video classes you can do from home.

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Couch to Fitness

Get active from the comfort of your own home.

Friends walking together outdoors

Exercises to do at home

Simple exercises you can do at home to get you started.

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Strength & Balance

Videos to help your strength and balance that you can do from home.

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NHS Better Health

10-minute home workouts with NHS Get Active. 

Find local activities

Getting active can be easier when you find something you enjoy close to home. Across Suffolk, there are lots of ways to get moving, from walking groups and exercise classes to swimming, cycling and local sports.

 

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Healthy Suffolk

Tips on getting active and a free  goal sheet and tracker.

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Suffolk Infolink

Your online Suffolk directory of community information, local clubs and societies.

Find something that works for you

Living with a health condition

Having a health condition doesn’t always mean you need to avoid being active.

We Are Undefeatable supports people with a range of long-term health conditions to be active. The Five in Five booklet is a great place to get started.

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Being active with a disability

There are many ways to be active, and the important thing is finding something that works for you.

Get Yourself Active offers practical ideas to help disabled people find fun and accessible ways to be active. Everything Disabled people need to know about getting active is a helpful guide. 

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Pregnancy and after a baby

Being active during pregnancy can help you feel good and support a healthy pregnancy. If your pregnancy is uncomplicated, it is usually safe to keep active or start with gentle activity. Find some information from the NHS here.

You can also sign up for the NHS Best Start in Life emails here, which have been created to support you throughout pregnancy and parenthood.

If you have any concerns about being active during pregnancy, speak to your midwife or healthcare professional. 

Pregnant lady holding her belly

Families and Children

Being active together as a family builds healhty habits and creates shared memories.

NHS Healthier Families can help you get started together. NHS Healthy Steps also offers 8 week email plans to help you and your family eat well and be active.

Parents and young child walking in park

Being active as you get older

Staying active as you get older can help you keep strong, steady and independent. 

You don’t have to do strenuous exercise. Walking, gardening, dancing, swimming or simple strength and balance activities all count. Start with what feels manageable and build up at your own pace. Age UK has some tips if you’re not sure where to start.

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Need some help to become more active?

If you need some extra help to become more active, Feel Good Suffolk may be able to support you. Find out what support is available, check if you’re eligible and refer yourself to Feel Good Suffolk.

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