Research shows that regular exercise can improve your health, confidence and quality of life. Even a little bit of activity can lower the risk of developing major chronic diseases, such as coronary heart disease, stroke, some cancers and type two diabetes, by up to 50%. It can cut the risk of premature death by 20% to 30%.
Likewise, a healthy and nutritious diet including your 5 a day of fruit and vegetables can improve your health, guard against serious illness and increase your energy levels.
In combination, exercise and a healthy diet can help you achieve a healthy weight which in turn reduces the risks of serious health problems.
Recommended activity levels
- Adults: 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity at least five days a week
- Children: 60 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity each day
Targets can be achieved with 10 minute bursts of activity spread throughout the day.
Visit the NHS Choices website for more information and useful tools to help you eat well, exercise and maintain a healthy weight.
