Why staying active is good for your wellbeing Move more in ‘24!

It is expected that in 2024 we will see a greater return to the office for employees in and around London. For some, it will mean moving more to get to your place of work, but for others, the commute will make the day shorter, meaning less time to spend on physical exercise and activities that make us feel good.

Southwark Leisure is committed to improving the wellbeing of residents and local workers and shares why it’s important to make time for being active and mindful as we adjust to a change in work-life balance.

• Regular activity releases endorphins, improves mood and reduces stress

• It enhances cognitive function and promotes better sleep

• Boosts self-esteem

• You feel more energised

• It can provide new opportunities for social interaction

Incorporating physical activity into your daily routine will keep your mind and your body healthy for improved wellbeing.

How much should we be moving?

The current government guidelines state that adults should be doing either 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity per week plus strength exercises on 2 or more days.

What gets you moving?

We all like doing different things. What gets your colleagues moving might not get you moving! Cycling, jogging or walking to work could rack up your weekly exercise minutes or you might enjoy doing one of the many activities across the eight Southwark Leisure Centres. There’s something for everybody including swimming, gym, classes, and a wide range of activities.

Find something you love to do and that will keep you active, more often and for longer.

Set a goal for added motivation

Setting yourself a goal for 2024 could help keep you focused and motivated. A goal can be as challenging as you want to make it.

You might want to take part in a challenge, practice mindfulness every day, get better at a particular sport, lose weight, exercise three times per week, build strength, gain flexibility and improve mobility. The list is endless. If you have a goal and need help achieving it, you can speak to a fitness instructor or personal trainer to get a bespoke programme to help keep you on track.

Move More Inspiration

The good news is that you don’t have to go far to find lots of facilities and activities. There’s plenty to do right here in Southwark.

For the first timers

Not sure what to do? Why not visit your local leisure centre and talk to them about your goals. The hardest part is taking that first step.

Once you’re through the door, you’re on your way to achieving your fitness targets..

For the fitness fanatics

The choice is yours! All the leisure centres are equipped with a good range of cardio equipment, functional kit, and weights for strength training.

For the sporty types

Have fun in the sports hall at The Castle Leisure Centre. You can hire it for 5-aside football, badminton, netball and basketball. Or why not challenge work colleagues to a game of tennis at Geraldine Mary Harmsworth Sports Facility.

For the adventurous

Find a new hobby on the water with sailing, kayaking or paddleboarding at Surrey Docks Fitness and Watersports Centre.

For mindfulness

Enjoy a leisurely swim at one of the many pools across the leisure centres. Try a holistic class such as yoga or Pilates or enjoy nature as you stroll through one of the many parks.

For the social ones

Group exercise is one of the most social activities across Southwark leisure centres. They have all the favourite classes including Les Mills and a fun community that will entice you back for more! Plus the Council has just invested £150k in refurbishing all the studios for an enhanced workout experience.

Try it for free!

If you would like to beat the New Year rush you can enjoy a free day pass at Southwark’s leisure centres up until December 31st.

Claim your pass at www.southwarkleisure.co.uk/free-pass terms and conditions apply.

For more information about Southwark leisure centres visit www.southwarkleisure.co.uk or download the Southwark Leisure app.