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. 

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The back is one of the largest sections of muscle and bone in the human body. Because of its size, the back is more prone to injury and damage than other areas, which makes strengthening the muscles in the area vital.

Updated: Tuesday 3 October 2023

Published: Monday 6 June 2016

Exercise is a great way to help lower your blood pressure levels. Ben Kelly, Director of Research and Outcomes, explains five of the best exercises.

Updated: Friday 22 September 2023

Published: Wednesday 30 March 2016

Do you shy away from the gym for fear of damaging your joints? You needn’t be worried. Exercise can in fact help to protect your joints, as well as relieve pain. “I don’t do that exercise because it’s bad for your joints.” Sound familiar? It’s a common reason people avoid exercises like running, weight training or some classes.

Updated: Friday 22 September 2023

Published: Tuesday 2 October 2018

This expansive area at the heart of the UK is home to some of the best summit peaks and expansive open areas of hiking terrain in the country. If you’re all about hiking over sprawling green land and walking hills that roll as far as the eye can see, the Midlands, Yorkshire and Humberside area are perfect for you.

Updated: Wednesday 20 September 2023

Published: Wednesday 20 September 2023

Renowned for expansive moorland and unrivalled coastline, the northeast of England has earned its reputation as a must-visit for walking and hiking enthusiasts. From the iconic Hadrian's Wall Path to the serene woodlands of Kielder Forest, the northeast draws adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts from up and down the country.

Updated: Wednesday 20 September 2023

Published: Wednesday 20 September 2023

Home to the world-famous lake district, the northwest of England is home to some of the best hiking trails in the country. The Northwest is made up of diverse terrains ranging from the green shores of Lake Windermere to the dramatic fells atop the Yorkshire Dales and the coastal paths of Lancashire.

Updated: Tuesday 19 September 2023

Published: Tuesday 19 September 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

Setting foot in your first yoga class can be a daunting experience if you don’t know what to expect. Yoga instructor Sam Graham explains the yoga basics, benefits, and some advice for your first class.

Updated: Tuesday 5 September 2023

Published: Friday 18 August 2023

Home to the Surrey Hills, the South Down National Park, the famous London green belt and countless other areas of natural beauty, the southeast of England is home to some of the most stunning outdoor areas in the UK.

Updated: Friday 1 September 2023

Published: Thursday 31 August 2023

The Southwest of England is a region steeped in history. Blessed with rolling hills and stunning coastline, this area is home to some of the UK’s best beaches, trails, and national parks. We’ve put together a set of 8 stunning walks ranging in difficult from gentle 1 and 2 mile history laden strolls to more challenging hikes along the southwestern coastline and in some of the country’s most famous national parks.

Updated: Friday 1 September 2023

Published: Wednesday 30 August 2023

Gyms are sweaty places. Whether you’re hitting the weights section or running on the treadmill, you’ve likely had a few sessions where you’re dripping wet wondering whether something is wrong. We’re here to explore just what normal means and to dispel some common myths and misconceptions about the relationship between sweating and exercise.

Updated: Monday 21 August 2023

Published: Monday 21 August 2023

Do you know your vinyasa from your savasana? Sam Graham breaks down some common yoga terms you may hear in a class.

Updated: Friday 18 August 2023

Published: Friday 18 August 2023

From strengthening your muscles to relieving stress, yoga can improve both your physical and mental health. Yoga instructor Sam Graham dives into the research to bring you the science-backed benefits of a regular yoga practice.

Updated: Friday 18 August 2023

Published: Friday 18 August 2023

Peeps Nicols isn't your typical woman in her 70s – she’s an aspiring strong woman.

Updated: Tuesday 15 August 2023

Published: Tuesday 15 August 2023

Weightlifting is a great way to improve fitness and build muscle, but bad form and poor fundamentals can mean you end up doing more harm than good. This is particularly common with beginners.

Updated: Thursday 10 August 2023

Published: Thursday 10 August 2023

Open water swimming is a growing trend in the UK. Unlike the controlled environment of a swimming pool, wild swimming gives you a unique connection to nature without compromising on the great physical and mental benefits that swimming provides. Depending on what you’re looking for, wild swimming is great for cardiovascular training, or for lounging in the summer sun with the family.

Updated: Tuesday 1 August 2023

Published: Tuesday 1 August 2023

The great thing about running is that it’s incredibly accessible and easy to get into. It’s a great way to keep fit and there’s no real need for any serious investment to get you started. While almost anyone can do it, it can be easy for beginners to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of shoes, garments, gadgets, and accessories that are out there. Thankfully, sticking to a few fundamental principles can save you hours of shopping around when you’re starting out.

Updated: Friday 28 July 2023

Published: Thursday 27 July 2023

We’re proud to be The Official Health and Wellbeing Partner of the England Teams so to celebrate an exciting summer of football and to show our support for the Lionesses we’ve launched a Summer Fitness Challenge for anyone to try. So why not give it a go, set new fitness goals and kick-off your summer by tackling our new challenges and workouts?

Updated: Friday 28 July 2023

Published: Thursday 27 July 2023