Physical activity

Being active

Regular physical activity is essential for good health as it delivers positive physical and mental health benefits. Moving more can also help you get a good night's sleep, which helps your brain to rest and recharge.

Being Active can reduce the risk of many chronic conditions, including obesity, type 2 diabetes and musculoskeletal conditions. It also can help prevent you getting depression, anxiety and other mental health problems.

It is important to break up long periods of sitting with light activity, as sedentary behaviour is now considered an independent risk factor for ill health, no matter how much exercise you do.  

The government has published clear guidelines about the amount of physical activity individuals should participate in for good health and this depends on age.

Early childhood (under 5 years old)

Children who can walk on their own should be physically active every day for at least three hours.

Young people (5–18 years old)

Children and young people aged 5 to 18 need to be active at least 60 minutes of every day – this should range from moderate activity, such as cycling and playground activities, to vigorous activity, such as running and tennis.

Adults (19–64 years old)

To stay healthy or to improve health, adults need to do two types of physical activity each week - aerobic and strength exercises.

Current recommendations are that adults should achieve at least 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity physical activity, and one way of achieving this is to be active regularly in bouts of at least 10 minutes or more.

Older adults (65 and over)

Older adults, who are generally fit and have no health conditions that limit their mobility, should try to be active daily.

Current recommendations are at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity such as cycling or walking every week, and strength exercises on two or more days a week that work all the major muscles (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders and arms).

Local support and information

Being active is really good for your body, mind and health – and there are lots of easy ways you and your family can get moving. If you're not as active as you should be you are putting your health and quality of life at risk.

Find out what’s available in North Tyneside for you at Active North Tyneside or call (0191) 643 7171.

National support and information

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