Do you want to get fit but you’re not sure where to start? If getting fitter was one of your New Year’s resolutions for 2024, here are three sports that are a great choice for beginners who are looking to get fitter and have fun at the same time.
Running
Running has a range of benefits both for your physical and mental health. For starters, running is one of the best forms of cardio exercise you can do, meaning it can help to lower your risk of cardiovascular disease, which is a major cause of heart attacks, angina and strokes.
Running can also lower your stress levels by releasing endorphins (or feel-good chemicals) and if you run outdoors, the benefits are increased even further as spending time in nature has been shown to lower blood pressure, elevate mood and help with mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.
One of the main benefits of running as a form of exercise is that it’s completely free. No expensive gym memberships or fancy equipment are required, all you need is a decent pair of trainers and off you go! If you haven’t exercised in a while and are looking to get into running, it’s best to start slow and build up gradually. The NHS Couch to 5k program is a range of podcasts that can help you increase your running ability over the space of 9 weeks.
Football
Whether you want to be the next Dominik Szoboszlai or you just fancy a kickabout with your mates, football is an excellent choice for anyone looking to get fit and have fun.
Playing 5-a-side has been shown to have a range of health benefits, including lower cholesterol, and a reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes. Football is also great for your mind, too. It can lower your stress levels, boost your confidence and improve your social life.
Playing as part of a team can help strengthen your relationships with your teammates who can be a great source of support during difficult times.
If you’re trying to lose weight, playing 5-a-side is also a great way to shed excess pounds and reach a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI).
Cycling
Cycling is another great sport if you’re looking to improve your fitness. Even cycling short distances is a great full-body workout and helps to improve your cardiovascular health.
Cycling can strengthen your core, which has a range of benefits. Cycling can be a fun hobby that encourages you to explore new places and appreciate the natural beauty around you but it can also be practical too! Cycling is a great way of getting around – whether it’s commuting to work or biking to the shops, which can save you money and help the planet – all while improving your fitness!