We recognise that times are difficult and money is tight for many people at the moment so we’ve pulled together some helpful tips and ideas on keeping active for free.

Walk, jog or run
Getting outside in the fresh air has added benefits for your wellbeing, and it costs nothing to go for a walk, run or jog. Just consider the right footwear and suitable clothing for the weather.

Use free Apps to help you like the brilliant Couch to 5K or Active 10 from the NHS.

There are 21 FREE weekly parkruns in Suffolk – find out where your nearest one is on the parkrun website and give it a go this weekend.

Discover Suffolk has wonderful walking routes if you want to explore Suffolk and they also have a very good app too.
Find out more on the Discover Suffolk website.

OneLife Suffolk also offers over 200 free, volunteer-led Wellbeing Walks across all of Suffolk – find out more on their website.

On your bike
Try getting back in the saddle (cycle saddle that is).
There are guided rides every week available on the British Cycling Let’s Ride website or just get out for a ride anytime, even if you haven’t cycled for years. Also consider using your bike for active travel and avoid taking the car whenever you can.

Long term health conditions
If you’re living with a health condition – The We Are Undefeatable campaign has lots of ideas and inspiration.

OneLife Suffolk supports people with long-term health conditions and those who would benefit from moving more often, to build physical activity into their lives. Find out more about Get Help To Get Active.

Outdoor Gym
Outdoor gyms offer a great way to get fit for free. Check out your local council’s website for details of outdoor gyms near you. Then, head down to your local park and kick start your health and fitness routine. These free open access facilities offer a range of fitness equipment designed especially for outdoor exercise. They’re easy to use and cater to all levels of fitness.

Dance like no one is watching
Everyone can dance – it doesn’t matter how much space you have or how well you can dance – just pop on some music and dance like no one is watching.

According to Healthline dancing can burn in the region of 118 to 207 calories in just 30 minutes, based on someone who weighs 150 pounds. What’s more it’s free, easy to do at home and requires no special fitness gear or equipment.

YouTube
There are literally thousands of trusted workouts on YouTube that you can easily follow – including yoga, pilates, HIIT classes and more. Just clear some space and give them a try. Some of our favourites include Joe Wicks, Heather Robertson, Move with James, Five Parks Yoga, Yoga with Adriene and Fitness Blender.

Whatever financial challenges you may face this winter, try to stay active and move a bit every day.  This will be of huge benefit to your physical and mental wellbeing and could actually help with stress and worry, by improving your mood and helping you to sleep better.