In winter it's tempting to just stay indoors for most of the time, but getting out, meeting others and taking part in some sort of activity helps people feel cheerful and stay fit.

Whatever your age, regular, safe and enjoyable physical activity is an essential part of maintaining a healthy way of life, as it helps you stay mobile and independent.

It will also give you:

• More energy
• Greater stamina
• Stronger more toned muscles
• Improved posture
• Improved confidence
• A better shape and appearance

Remember:

• You don't have to be fit to start off with - if you don't get much exercise at the moment, its important to build up your level of activity gradually.  That way, your body will gradually get used to being more active and you're far less likely to strain any muscles.
• You don't have to leave home to exercise - there are plenty of activities inside and outside the house that could be an opportunity for exercise.
• You don't need to set aside a lot of time for exercise - activities can quite easily be introduced into your daily routine.  Brisk walking to the shops can be an alternative to taking the car.
• You don't have to be young - it's never to take up a new activity.  You can benefit greatly from physical activity, as you will have the time and freedom to pursue a range of interests.

Getting Started

If you do decide to take up a new form of exercise, particularly if it is fairly vigorous, it is recommended that you have a check-up from your GP before you start, particularly if you have suffered with:

• Heart trouble
• High blood pressure
• Unexplained pains in your chest
• Dizziness or fainting
• A bone or joint problem that could be made worse by exercise

For further information on what facilities/classes are available in your area, contact:

• Nordic Walking - Age Cymru runs Nordic Walking programmes in many areas across Wales.  Contact Age Cymru on 029 2043 1555 or click here.
• Leisure centres and swimming pools - they will be listed in your local phone book under the name of your council.  Many of them run special programmes for older people or have facilities available for groups who want to organise their own activities.  Special rates are also usually available.
• Your local authority education office - Will also be listed in the phone book under the name of the council.  They provide a wide range of adult education classes, taking place during the day and in the evening.  Pensioners are usually given concessionary rates but sometimes you have to ask.
• Library - Ask if they can provide you with the names and addresses of contacts for local clubs and societies, such as cycling clubs or keep fit courses run by independent organisations.

Or for further information on being active, visit: BBC Health 

Remember, try and keep your exercise up in winter as well as during the rest of the year.  Just don't take any risks in wet or icy weather.