Beginners' tips

Starting your fitness journey can be daunting but it can also be exciting! Regardless of how you feel about it, we have advice to get you started.

From beginner gym workouts to tips on how you can get more active, there’s something for everyone.

What counts as physical activity? Unfortunately, this age-old question doesn’t have a simple answer. There are many different types of physical activity, all of which get us moving in different ways. Keep reading to learn more about what constitutes moderate physical activity (as defined by the NHS) and how including some vigorous movement can further improve our overall health.

Updated: Monday 15 April 2024

Published: Monday 15 April 2024

Walking is a free and simple way of getting out and moving your body. This often-overlooked form of exercise has several mental and physical health benefits that are proven to help with weight loss, joint pain management, and our mood.

Updated: Thursday 11 April 2024

Published: Thursday 11 April 2024

The half-marathon distance bridges the gap between “short” distance and “long” distance running. For beginners or those that have done a 10k event it the past, 13.1 -miles (21km) is a challenging but attainable distance – as long as you have the right training plan.

Updated: Wednesday 17 January 2024

Published: Wednesday 10 January 2024

The 10km distance is a challenging and rewarding distance that tests new and experienced runners alike. Whether you’ve just completed a 5km and are looking for a new challenge, or you’re eyeing up a new PB, our plan can help.

Updated: Wednesday 17 January 2024

Published: Friday 12 January 2024

If you want to get into resistance or strength training but aren’t sure where to start, look no further. Our expert led workout can be done in the gym or at home (if you have the right equipment) and contains everything you’ll need to get started. Before you start working various different areas of the body, we’ll walk you through the warm-up, the best compound lifts for you, and cooling down afterwards.

Updated: Tuesday 16 January 2024

Published: Wednesday 3 January 2024

You’ve taken control of your health and wellbeing and joined the gym, so why the worry? Senior Wellbeing Personal Trainer, Graham Morland, tackles first-time gym-goer anxieties head on.

Updated: Tuesday 2 January 2024

Published: Thursday 11 May 2017

If you’re returning to the gym after some time off or you’re a complete beginner, you might be wondering what you need to bring with you. Times change quickly, and with so many new and innovative gadgets out there, knowing what gear is essential and what isn’t can get confusing.

Updated: Tuesday 12 December 2023

Published: Tuesday 12 December 2023

The push-up is one of the best bodyweight exercises that anyone can do. An added benefit is they require no equipment and are great for building muscle and functional strength almost anywhere. Find out all you need to know about technique and how best to approach the push-up if you’re starting a 30-day challenge, below.

Updated: Tuesday 24 October 2023

Published: Monday 16 December 2019

Going to the gym for the first time doesn’t need to be daunting. Adam Hameed, personal trainer at Nuffield Health, offers some beginner workouts to help you feel confident and get the most out of your gym time.

Updated: Tuesday 24 October 2023

Published: Wednesday 18 December 2019

The twohanded (or double handed) backhand is one of the hardest shots in tennis to nail. Thankfully, if you take the time to hone your technique, you’ll be sending balls back with increased power and accuracy in no time. Explore the basics, along with some nifty tips and tricks, below.

Updated: Wednesday 11 October 2023

Published: Tuesday 10 October 2023

Tennis as a game can be broken down into a series of points that start with the serve. Because it’s a unique part of the game that doesn’t mirror the other fundamental tennis shots, learning to serve can be tricky for beginners.

Updated: Wednesday 11 October 2023

Published: Wednesday 11 October 2023

The volley is a technically difficult shot that has a huge payoff if you can get it right. The idea is to return the ball before it hits the ground, breaking up the tempo of the point by catching your opponent off guard. The technique requires great composure and anticipation, along with a good understanding of positioning on the court.

Updated: Wednesday 11 October 2023

Published: Wednesday 11 October 2023

The forehand is a staple shot in any tennis players repertoire. The ability to deliver a strong and accurately positioned ball on your dominant side is the building block for the rest of your game.

Updated: Tuesday 10 October 2023

Published: Tuesday 10 October 2023

Whether it’s functional strength or aesthetic appeal that you’re looking for, training your biceps is a vital part of any weightlifting routine. All you need is a bar and some weights or a set of dumbbells. To save you time and effort, we’ve put all the best exercises for building bigger biceps in one place. For optimal results, incorporate your favourite bicep exercises into your wider fitness routine.

Updated: Wednesday 4 October 2023

Published: Wednesday 4 October 2023

‘Gymtimidation’ refers to both the use of new equipment and training styles as well as the feeling of intimidation when stepping into the gym. Olivia Tyler, clinical fitness regional lead at Nuffield Health, shares common scenarios of ‘gymtimidation’ and how to recognise and overcome them.

Updated: Friday 22 September 2023

Published: Friday 23 December 2022

With work, family and other commitments, making time for health and fitness can be easier said than done. But with 37% of Brits stating that their physical fitness has declined over the past year, investing in your body and your mental health has never been more important.

Updated: Tuesday 18 April 2023

Published: Tuesday 18 April 2023

Not getting as much exercise as you’d like? Whether you’re still working from home, or you’ve become less active since the pandemic, Professor Ben Kelly, Head of Clinical Research has five tips to help get you moving and improve your health.

Updated: Tuesday 10 January 2023

Published: Wednesday 30 March 2016

The past 18 months have been immensely challenging. The stress of the pandemic and being confined to our homes has understandably resulted in some unhealthy habits. Prevention Lead Gosia Bowling and Head of Emotional Wellbeing Brendan Street discuss how we can get fitter and healthier, from exercising more to having a better sleep routine.

Updated: Friday 7 October 2022

Published: Wednesday 28 April 2021

Do you miss being part of a group and having a regular routine? As a member of Nuffield Health’s gym community, you’ll have access to a wide range of connected wellbeing services. These range from exercise classes and swimming lessons, to personal training and physiotherapy.

Updated: Friday 2 September 2022

Published: Monday 25 October 2021