Health and care partners across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire are encouraging people to move more as part of a South West ‘Every Move Matters’ campaign launching today (Monday 21 July).
The local NHS Integrated Care Board (ICB) and councils in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire have joined together to support the regional campaign, led by NHS England South West and the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, to get more people moving.
The initiative highlights how moving just a little bit each day can help people build a stronger, healthier future.
Dr Joanne Medhurst, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire ICB, said: “We know around 20% of people in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire could benefit from moving more, as we know that less than 30 minutes of physical activity a week can contribute to the development of long-term health conditions, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
“We also know that lack of movement and physical activity can affect mental health and over time can weaken muscles and bones, so it’s really important for people to keep active every day doing something that suits you and your lifestyle, whether it’s going for a walk or bike ride, dancing round the kitchen or going to the gym. Getting moving has huge benefits for physical and mental health, and it can be fun too!”
The campaign highlights that you don’t need to be a gym-goer or marathon runner to benefit from being active. Any movement is better than none, even short bouts of activity add up and contribute to overall health.
Dr Medhurst added: “We’re delighted to be supporting this campaign along with our Public Health colleagues at Bristol City Council, North Somerset Council and South Gloucestershire Council.
“Every move, at every age and at every ability, can have an impact on how we feel. Being active strengthens your heart, lifts your mood, sharpens your focus and adds energy to your day.
“One of the great things about living in the South West is that we have so many great places and things to do and during the summer months, it’s an even better time to get out and about and stay active.”
Adults should ideally aim for at least 20 minutes of physical activity each day. Strength-building activities such as yoga, squats or hill walking should be done at least twice a week.
There’s no right way to move — only your way. From countryside walks and beach runs to gardening or joining a local dance class, there are plenty of ways to be active.
Ideas to get moving locally include:
• Walking or cycling along a coastal or countryside path
• Join a beginners’ fitness class or couch to 5K group
• Do 10-minute workouts at home
• Take the stairs instead of the lift
• Try a free local parkrun or group walk.
Sports charity, Wesport, which works across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, is also supporting the campaign and championing the message that even small amounts of movement can make a big difference to people’s health and wellbeing.
Whether you’re stretching at your desk or hiking the moors, you can share your photos or stories on social media with #EveryMoveMatters.
