Exercise doesn’t have to bring back painful memories of PE lessons. You can find an activity that you enjoy, and that fits around your lifestyle!
Our Body Magic physical activity programme supports you to get fitter in a way that’s enjoyable and sustainable. We’ll help you find an activity that’s great for your health and supporting your weight loss – and help you break through any misconceptions or worries that may be stopping you from getting started.
These simple steps will turn activity into something you love so much, you’ll never want to give it up. Yes, really!
5. Rethink the ‘e’ word
While we often think of exercise as sweaty gym sessions or parading around in Lycra, they’re not the only things that count. Anything that just gets you moving more, more often will help you get fitter and start to bring benefits for your health and wellbeing.
Did you know? Moderate-intensity cardio activity – movement that increases your breathing, raises your heart rate and makes you feel warmer – will bring you the best benefits.
Magic ideas to get you started:
- Dance around the kitchen
- Do some vigorous vacuuming
- Garden with gusto
- …and all that housework counts, too!
Slimming World member Andy builds his fitness by hitting the skatepark whenever he gets the chance.
More on the blog: Up your activity the easy way with these four challenges
4. Start where you are
If you’re not doing any activity, going from zero to 150 minutes a week can seem overwhelming – and unachievable. Instead, just aim to do a little bit more than you do right now. Then, when that becomes a habit, you might do a little bit more, than a little bit more… Doing short bursts of activity regularly is proven to be more important for your health than occasional, bigger blocks of exercise.
Did you know? Our Body Magic programme meets you where you are right now. If you’re yet to get started, we’ll help you overcome your hurdles and boost your motivation so you can build up at your own pace.
Magic ideas to get you started:
- Take the stairs instead of the lift
- Park a bit further away from the supermarket
- Get up from your desk every 20 minutes for a stretch
More on the blog: 5 sneaky exercise stoppers – and how to overcome them
3. Make it a habit
We don’t give a second thought to everyday habits like brushing our teeth – it’s just what we do. Turning physical activity into a normal, enjoyable part of your week is the key to making it a long-term habit you couldn’t imagine breaking.
Did you know? Our members get access to a free activity tracker, exercise guides, activity videos, podcasts and more on the Slimming World app, to help them build active habits.
Magic ideas to get you started:
- Ask a friend or family member to exercise with you
- Sign up for a weekly activity, like a Parkrun, a group ramble or a fitness class
- Track your progress so that you can look back at your amazing achievements
Slimming World Consultant Alaina keeps her move-more motivation flowing by doing muddy runs with her friends and fellow members.
More for members: How to make activity a habit – that sticks!
2. Celebrate every step
Studies show that we’re more likely to stick with an active routine when we break it down into small, achievable goals and celebrate every step we take. At Slimming World, there’s always an award with your name on it. You’ll get a Magic Mover award just for getting going, and by the time you’ve built up to our Gold award you’ll be doing the government-recommended 150 minutes a week.
Did you know? Many benefits start kicking in as soon as you get active, from improved mood to a better night’s sleep.
More on the blog: How can I find the energy to get active?
1. Find your lifestyle fit
Activities that suit you and that fit into your lifestyle are the ones that will slip most easily into your life. If you’re not sure where to start, or how to add more activity to what you’re already doing, think about something that would be meaningful to you personally.
Did you know? Slimming World’s activity videos are a great way to discover new activities you love. With more than 90 fun workouts, including seated ones, there’s something for every ability and fitness level.
Magic ideas to get you started:
- Walk the kids to school rather than driving
- Volunteer to walk the family dog
- Stand on one leg for 60 seconds (without falling over!) while you’re washing up
Unlock our full get-fit tool kit today
With our unique Body Magic activity programme, you’re in control. You choose when to start, you choose where to start and you choose how you want to do it. And we’ll be there to support you every step of the way as you discover the amazing health and body benefits that being active brings.