As we following the UK government’s Roadmap out of National Lockdown and society starts to return to as close to “normal” as possible, many people are thinking about getting more active again and starting to do a bit more exercise.
If this sounds like you then one question you might be asking yourself is where am I going to do it? After 18 months of being cooped up in our homes, binging on box sets and spending hours on video calls the last thing many of us want to do is exercise at home.
So if you’re planning to get healthier and fitter in the rest of 2021 where are the local spaces and places available to you?
The great news is that there are loads of options available to you, and there’s somewhere for everyone to start getting a bit more active.
Gyms are a great option for many people and you’re spoilt for choice in the West Midlands. Whether you’re after a budget gym that offers no-frills, a gym that’s open 24 hours so you can go when it suits you, or perhaps a higher-end offering with jacuzzies, swimming pools and sauna’s.
The advantages of exercising in the gym include the amount and range of equipment they have, plus it can be more interesting than exercising on your own. Many have fully qualified gym instructors and personal trainers who are on hand to give you advice and even create bespoke plans and sessions for you if you don’t really know where to get started or need some extra motivation and support. Most gyms run a varied schedule of group exercise classes which I know they will be doing just as soon as restrictions allow.
Gyms, however are not for everyone as some people find just the idea of going to one quite daunting in which case what are the other options available to you?
Local parks and green spaces are another great option to get more active, especially as there is more and more evidence to suggest that exercising in “green” open spaces has lots of additional benefits for our mental health as well. So why not take a walk down to your local park to see what’s happening over the next few months? You’ll probably find that many have Personal Trainers and Coaches who are running outdoor group exercises classes.
Walking is great low intensity exercise but perhaps you’re a bit anxious about going out and walking on your own? If so there are a number of local walking groups that are always looking for new members and would be happy to have you join them. These groups are a great way to start getting more active and also making new friends and exploring some of the amazing hidden gems that are literally on our doorsteps.
If neither gyms or walking aren’t quite your thing then perhaps some kind of sport might be more your scene. There are literally dozens of local sports clubs that are always looking for new members to get involved and enjoy their sports. There’s something for everyone from bowling and tennis to swimming, running and roller-skating.
So if you know that you need to get a bit more active then there really is an option that is right for you. If you’re not sure how to start contact a local Personal Trainer or Fitness Coach to see if they can help you get the ball rolling.
Some Resources to help you take the first step:
List of events happening in Wolverhampton Parks and Open Spaces
https://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/visiting/parks-green-spaces-and-nature-reserves/parks
To find your local walking group take a look at: Walking For Health
https://www.walkingforhealth.org.uk/
List of Wolverhampton Sports Clubs
https://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/sports-and-leisure/sports-clubs-and-coaching
Active Black Country
https://www.activeblackcountry.co.uk/
Sport England
