If you’re keen to get in shape, spring is the ideal time of year to get started and we’ve put together a list of the top 5 recommended types of exercise that you can try to see which you prefer, and add some more activity to your life. Plus, if you want to treat yourself to some new clothing and accessories, sportswear deals are available with this TALA discount code, so you can save money on your online purchases. 

Walking

Going for a walk is one of the most simple activities you can do, and actually offers a range of health benefits. Even a small amount of daily walking can improve your cardiovascular fitness and reduce the risk of a range of serious health conditions. It’s also been proven to have a positive effect on mental well being, increasing self-esteem, and reducing stress and anxiety. Best of all, walking is completely free and you can incorporate this activity into your daily routine in ways to suit you, such as walking to the shops instead of driving or meeting up with friends in your local park for a leisurely walk together. 

Swimming

Unless you’re competing on a professional level, swimming is usually a very relaxing and peaceful form of exercise with loads of benefits such as strengthening your muscles, increasing your flexibility, and relieving stress. It’s also recommended for anyone who is recovering from an injury or particular health conditions because it is considered a very low impact and therapeutic activity. You may be the kind of person who only swims during the summer, or when you’re abroad, but you could also consider trying out your local indoor swimming centre to give it a go!

Yoga

Yoga comes in many different forms and is now a very popular form of exercise for many people. The advantages of participating regularly in your chosen yoga discipline include improved flexibility, blood circulation, and strengthening of the immune system. Plus, it goes without saying that there is a meditative aspect to yoga which is also proven to improve mental health, by reducing stress and uplifting your mood. If you’ve never tried yoga before, you can check out what yoga classes are available in your area and you can also find many online classes and tutorials that you can do at home. 

Running

If you prefer a more up beat sport, running could be the right choice for you.  Burning calories and controlling weight are often popular reasons to start running but don’t forget that it is also great for your joints and muscles, and evidence shows that it can significantly reduce the risk of certain health issues. Running can be an individual sport, or you can team up with a friend or family member to keep you company. Many runners also enjoy listening to music or taking in the natural surroundings when running outside and going for a run usually won’t cost you a penny. 

Hitting the gym

As an all-round approach to general fitness, attending a local gym is often a popular choice of exercise. The benefits of going to the gym are endless, and you can focus on the type of exercises that are right for you. Many gyms also offer a range of different kinds of fitness classes where you can meet new people and make new friends while you work out. If you’re new to gym workouts, it’s usually a good idea to get started with a personal trainer who can help you identify the best activities for your fitness goals.

These are just a few of the most commonly recommended types of exercise, but of course, there are many more that you can choose from. The important thing to remember is to focus on keeping it regular. If you’re wondering exactly how much exercise you should be doing, you can consult the NHS physical activity guidelines to see if you’re doing the right amount.