It may have seemed that everyone was going on walk after walk, but physical activity has plummeted during the pandemic. Sport England’s latest annual survey found that in 2019/20, 27 per cent of all adults in the UK were classed as inactive, with less than 30 minutes of physical activity a week. Women, Black and Asian adults and younger adults (aged 16 to 24) have seen activity levels fall the most, according to the survey.
Wellbeing
Physical activity is one of the most important factors in wellbeing, with a long list of positive effects, including maintaining a healthy weight, improved sleep, and a reduced risk of dementia, anxiety, depression, heart disease and some cancers. When we exercise, blood flow is increased, leading to better circulation, digestion and heart and lung function, says Dr Lala Manners, physical development trainer and director of Active Matters. When moving, our brains produce new cells that improve memory and performance, while anxiety and depression are reduced due to increased blood flow to the brain, and stress levels and cortisol production are lowered.
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