Physical activity and exercise
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Physical activity and exercise is good for mental as well as physical well-being. Regular physical activity and exercise can help to reduce the effects of anxiety and depression.
No matter what your age, ability or level of fitness, there's an exercise activity for you - whether it's walking in a park or nature reserve, playing team sports like bowls or football, lifting weights in the gym, joining in a dance or aerobics class, or doing light exercises designed especially for people with health problems. You can do a little or a lot.
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Regular exercise can help to reduce the effects of anxiety and depression. |
Preventing Disease Regular physical activity reduces risk of many types of cancer by 8–28%; heart disease and stroke by 19%; diabetes by 17%, depression and dementia by 28–32%. |
Good for everyone Exercise is suitable for all ages, abilities, and fitness levels. |
Meeting new people Physical activity creates opportunities to meet new people and feel part of the community |
Mental & Physical Health Activities can include:
- Walking in parks or nature reserves
- Playing team sports like bowls or football
- Lifting weights in the gym
- Joining dance or aerobics classes
- Being active at home to maintain or support independence
Below, you will find information about what is available to you locally as well as national information and guidance
Guide to physical activity and sport for people with a learning disability produced by Mencap
Are you a professional? Please find relevant information in the ‘Professional’ section.
