Fitness

Keeping fit will benefit your body and your mind. Whether you want to lose weight, build strength or maintain a fitness regime our experts are here to keep you on track. Read trusted advice from Nuffield Health experts and personal experiences from members in our fitness articles. 

Running Challenges Workouts Cycling Swimming Gym advice Fitness tips Beginners' tips Active ageing Gym classes Staying active Strengthening Walking Family fitness Personal Training

For a runner, there are few decisions as important as the marathon you choose. From the fastest courses to the most scenic locations to enjoy, we pick some of the UK's top locations for covering 26.2 miles.

Updated: Thursday 23 April 2026

Published: Friday 9 June 2023

Joining the gym for the first time can be a daunting experience, regardless of your age or ability. But help is at hand. Personal Trainer Denise Collman shares her top tips on getting the best start.

Updated: Monday 15 December 2025

Published: Tuesday 1 September 2015

Mixing things up and trying something different helps keep exercise interesting and the body stimulated. Whether you’re tired of your current routine, or you’re on the hunt for a new class to try out, a kettlebell workout makes a great alternative to your traditional barbell and dumbbell focused classes.

Updated: Thursday 21 November 2024

Published: Thursday 20 July 2023

Training for a marathon isn't just about running. Nuffield Health Nutritional Therapist Joanne Hart shares nutritional advice for boosting energy levels before, during, and after your training sessions.

Updated: Monday 18 November 2024

Published: Friday 4 December 2015

Why do we need to eat protein, and how can we be sure we’re eating enough of the right kinds? Nuffield Health Nutritional Therapist Tracey Strudwick explains.

Updated: Monday 19 August 2024

Published: Thursday 2 March 2017

In the very first episode of the Let’s Talk Health podcast, we sat down with two of our Nuffield Health Ambassadors Dame Kelly Holmes and Fara Williams MBE to chat about their decorated careers, the importance of adapting your training over time, overcoming adversity, and the barriers to fitness that women still face today.

Updated: Tuesday 9 July 2024

Published: Tuesday 9 July 2024

We’re calling on political party leaders to support the adoption of our National Movement Strategy to help combat widespread issues affecting the nation’s health.

Updated: Monday 24 June 2024

Published: Monday 24 June 2024

If you’re into running, you’ve probably heard about fartlek training. This popular training method is great for boosting your training, whether you’re knee-deep into a marathon plan or looking to run 5k for fun. But what does fartlek mean, and what’s really involved? Keep reading to explore how this Swedish running phenomenon can help take your training to the next level.

Updated: Wednesday 12 June 2024

Published: Monday 4 January 2016

Wild swimming is a growing trend in the UK. Unlike the controlled environment of a swimming pool, open water swimming gives you a unique connection to nature without compromising on the great physical and mental benefits of swimming.

Updated: Wednesday 29 May 2024

Published: Tuesday 1 August 2023

If you're a runner in the UK, chances are you’ve heard of parkrun. The free event takes place at 9am every Saturday and sees thousands of people descend on locations around the country to walk or run 5km on a closed road course.

Updated: Tuesday 28 May 2024

Published: Thursday 6 July 2023

Whether it’s cycling, running, or swimming, you put your body through a lot during a race. As you cross the finish line and that familiar ache starts to set in, you know your body will need some TLC to get back to its best. You'll find everything you need to maximise your post-race recovery in our quick and easy guide, below.

Updated: Monday 20 May 2024

Published: Friday 15 January 2016

Overtraining occurs when we don’t give our body enough time to recover between exercise sessions. It can have a big impact on performance and the frequency at which we get injured. Whilst weightlifting and cardio are great for mind and body, adequate rest is just as important.

Updated: Friday 26 April 2024

Published: Friday 26 April 2024

The physical health benefits of regular exercise for young ones are well known. What’s less explored is how movement can help with restlessness, worry, anxiety and a lack of focus in children.

Updated: Monday 22 April 2024

Published: Monday 22 April 2024

Staying fit and healthy is just as important for kids as it is for grown-ups, but it can be difficult to find ways to make it fun.

Updated: Tuesday 23 January 2024

Published: Wednesday 23 August 2023

Going to a gym class for the first time can be daunting. If you feel scared or apprehensive about attending a fitness class alone, you’re not the only one. We’ve put together this practical guide to let you know how bringing a friend along can help.

Updated: Monday 11 December 2023

Published: Tuesday 7 August 2018

As we get older, it’s important we don’t give up exercise and physical activity completely. Research suggests that regular exercise and maintaining a healthy amount of movement throughout life can significantly mitigate the negative impact of these changes.

Updated: Monday 30 October 2023

Published: Monday 2 May 2016

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

If you’re thinking of booking a hiking or walking holiday in Scotland and are looking for some inspiration, you’re in the right place. We’ve put a list of our favourite hiking routes, trails, and paths together to save you time and money. From accessible forest trails to challenging mountain summits, we’ve got something for everyone.

Updated: Wednesday 13 September 2023

Published: Wednesday 13 September 2023

Northern Ireland is one of the most popular hiking and walking destinations in the UK. Of particular interest is the Causeway Coast and the stunning offshore rock formations it’s home to. Whether you’re looking for a coastal hike or you’re interested in exploring a secluded national park, there’s something for you. Northern Ireland is the perfect location for amateur and experienced outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Updated: Wednesday 13 September 2023

Published: Wednesday 13 September 2023

For such a small country, Wales boasts a wide and diverse array of mountain ranges and summits to scale. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned expert looking for a new challenge, Wales has something to offer you. Whether you’re after a weekend away from the city or seven days of exploration in the mountains, there’s something for everyone. To save you time we’ve put together a selection of eight of our favourite Welsh hikes for you to enjoy while you’re there.

Updated: Friday 8 September 2023

Published: Friday 8 September 2023