Exercise is a vital part of day to day life when it comes to good health and mental wellbeing yet it is something that a lot of adults and young people avoid. According to the 2017 Physical Activity Report by the British Heart Foundation, ‘Around 39% of adults - that’s around 20 million people - are failing to meet government recommendations for physical activity.’ No matter how bad you are at sports or however unathletic you feel there is always something for everyone whether that is swimming because it makes you feel free or running around the park for a breath of fresh air, exercise should become an important part of your life.

In times of stress, exercise can be quite liberating but many choose to over work themselves or even ‘stress eat’ junk food which is something we are all guilty of. However, it is scientifically proven that exercising in times of stress can significantly decrease your stress levels as endorphins are released. According to the Mental Health Foundation, ‘Physical activity can be an alternative treatment approach for depression’ and it is an ‘empowering approach'

Many feel like there are barriers to how often they can exercise such as self-confidence, motivation or even cost. One thing that people should always remember is that the gym is not the only way you can exercise, you do not need a paid membership to get active. You can do this out in the park or with a pet on your own or in your own garden. Even a local Park Run in Wimbledon Common among other places, every Saturday, walking or running is another great option. Many people find that their confidence and motivation improves with physical activity and so does their mental wellbeing. Setting attainable goals and going out instead of staying indoors all the time can make you feel freer, happier and inevitably healthier. Many people enjoy exercise and find a sense of liberation in it such as Grace Middleton, a girl that dances all the time and loves it because, as she says “I feel like I can escape from the world and show my emotions through my dancing”.

So, try it today, get out and get active because a healthy body inevitably leads to a health mind.