Exercise makes us feel better, gives us more energy, improves sleep and leads to a longer life. This is due to the release of chemicals called endorphins, which are the same chemicals released when somebody is happy or falls in love.

So, it is possible to fall in love with exercise!

At times there are barriers to exercise, such as in times of ill-health or when faced with a disability. However, exercise should always be achievable if undertaken in the right way.

Are there different ways of exercising?

Aerobic exercise is another term for ‘cardio’ and is an exercise that improves the
oxygen circulating around the body. These types of exercise are carried out over a
longer time frame and tend to make you short of breath as the body demands more
oxygen.
Anaerobic exercises, are those that strengthen muscles, being carried out over
several short bursts and are aimed at improving stamina.
There are also mental exercises that keep your brain agile, such as crosswords,
sudoku and other puzzles and games.

Does exercise have to cost me money?

Exercising every day can be carried out without any financial burden such as a brisk walk in the park and stretches at home in the morning before work. Swimming can be
advantageous to people who have issues with their joints or limbs, as it takes the weight of the body off the affected area, making the exercises easier.

However, there is also the social benefit to keeping fit and many people choose to join gyms, running clubs or similar groups. There are also many websites and apps on-line where people share their exercise routines.

Goal Setting

Before carrying out your exercise, make sure your goals are achievable. You should always start slowly and build up gradually as this stops you from becoming disheartened if you can’t manage to achieve what you may see others doing. It also allows your body to gradually become accustomed to the new demands placed upon it.

Never compare your exercise capability with somebody else as we are all different.

Typical calories burnt during exercise:

Running 679 – 940 calories per hour*

Cycling 472 – 654 calories per hour*

Swimming 413 – 572 calories per hour*

Aerobic 384-531 calories per hour*

Yoga 236-327 calories per hour*

Walking 195-270 calories per hour*

*dependant on weight

Day to Day Changes

Exercise is something that is best incorporated into your usual day, so maybe get off the bus a stop early, or park the car away from work and walk the rest of the way. Take a walk during lunchtime (make sure you have a lunchtime!). It is so easy to say you have no time, but making time can improve your life.

Regular physical activity can support physical health, mental wellbeing, energy levels, and overall resilience. Small, sustainable changes are often the easiest way to build healthy habits and maintain them over the long term.

Occupational Health can play an important role in supporting Employees to remain healthy, active, and productive at work. Whether through wellbeing initiatives, guidance around physical activity, support following injury or illness, or access to specialist services such as Physiotherapy, Occupational Health can help individuals develop sustainable approaches to managing their health and wellbeing.

At Asclepius Occupational Health & Wellbeing, we recognise that supporting health is not only about responding when difficulties arise, but also about helping Employees maintain their wellbeing and remain at work safely and effectively.

If you would like to learn more about how Occupational Health and wellbeing support can benefit your Organisation, please contact us at enquiries@a-ohs.co.uk.

We’re here to assist.