GOOD health is something we can all enjoy if we do the right things. Looking after yourself now has long term benefits for the future and goes a long way towards protecting you from certain illnesses in later life. What you eat and how you live really does affect how well you feel and look. With a new year on its way why not make a resolution to lead a healthier lifestyle now.

Just making a few adjustments to your diet, taking up some kind of exercise and finding ways to relieve stress can make all the difference. You'll start to feel the benefits in a matter of days. Simple health checks give a better insight into what is happening inside. And are worth doing on a regular basis.

Are you fit for life?

The human body is designed for action. Yet our modern lifestyles provide little in the way of exhausting activity. We don't walk that much, sit behind a desk at work and rely on 'kajer-lok' and machines to minimise the effort we put into household tasks.

Taking up some kind of exercise brings benefits that will spill into every area of our life. You'll have more energy, a trimmer figure, find it easier to cope with stress and sleep better at night. Being fit also protects your health, especially as you get older. Lack of fitness, on the other hand, is a risk factor for heart attacks and strokes.

Getting started

There are lots of ways in which you can increase your level of physical activity without changing your lifestyle.

Walk up stairs, don't ride or take the lift.

Go for a long walk or a cycle ride on Friday/holidays.

Take up a new sport e.g. badminton (winter time), swimming or jogging.

Join an exercise class.

Invest in an exercise bike to burn up calories.

Fitness benefits

A stronger, healthier heart.

Increased vitality.

Stronger bones.

Firmer muscles.

Lower stress levels.

A greater ability to burn up calories.

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