Being more active is for everyone- people of every ability range, age, and body type. Wyre Moving More aims to encourage everyone to reframe their relationship with exercise and start moving with confidence and joy. We want to help everyone including those with disabilities to get moving more, feel safe and having fun doing it.

What comes to mind when you think of being more active? If you’re picturing people sweating it out at the gym every day, you’re not alone. The good news is that incorporating more movement into your day to day life doesn’t have to include a gym membership or require any particular fitness level, and it can and should be enjoyable for all!

Rethinking Exercise

If you have a health condition or disability, movement can be tricky. It can be difficult to know where to start or to find the right type of movement for you. Chronic conditions also mean that the typical idea of a regular exercise routine can be difficult to maintain. The most important first step is to check with your health professional before starting a new physical activity programme. When you’ve received the go ahead, you can start the exciting journey of reframing your relationship with movement, and that starts with exploring what movement means to you.

Forget the stereotypes about exercise and focus on yourself, your interests and your lifestyle. Whether you’re participating in exercise regularly or just when you can manage, every movement counts. There are guided classes available from home and in your local community to get involved in no matter your starting point or abilities, whether you’re moving from your bed, wheelchair, at home or outdoors, there are options out there for you. Have a look at some of local resources available here.

Discovering Your Why

We all know being more active is good for us, but our understanding of it can distort our perception of how or if we can participate. No matter your ability level, it’s important to start by finding your why. Why do you want to move more?

Your “why” might be because you want to experience the health benefits of regular physical activity, such as combating disease, improving your mood or boosting your energy, but try to go deeper. Make it personal to you. It could be that you want to increase your confidence, socialise more in the local community, playing more with your children or grandchildren, get out into nature more often or improve your mental health. Finding your why is crucial in keeping yourself motivated to move.

Find Your Joy

Being more active doesn’t have to be about punishing routines or pushing your body to the limit. It can and should be fun! We know that participating in activity that you enjoy plays a key role in building and sticking to your goals, so try things out and see what you find fun.

If you like the idea of the traditional setting, ask your local gym about classes or personal trainers who offer support to those with a long term condition or disabled customers. If the gym is not your thing, forget the dumbbells and check out what local, low-impact or beginners classes are available at your local leisure centre.

Participating in a class doubles the physical benefit of exercise with the psychological benefit of socialising with others and meeting new people. Being part of a class or group can boost confidence and empower you to try new things. There are a wide range of local programmes available for those of all ages and abilities, check out what is available here.

If you’re not in a position to go out to a class, there are also plenty of opportunities to move from home. Check online on websites like YouTube for free guided classes for beginners, or those with specific conditions. There are options for seated classes that can get you moving without leaving your home.

Start Low, Go Slow

It’s crucial to start small, particularly if you’re starting a new movement routine. Take your time and celebrate every little victory, because every movement counts. Being mindful of your gradual progress can build confidence, and might lead you to branch out into new activities and classes.

Our blog 5 Activities To Try When Being Active Isn’t Easy is aimed at getting you started by recognising the movement you’re already doing and building on that with resources and ideas to help you get clear on your “why” and start a movement routine that’s right for you. Check out our resources to find local groups and classes participating in our campaign to get Wyre moving with confidence and feeling the benefits.