Physical Activity
Weight management programme patients
COVID-19 Information
Please click here to view an update from the Weight Management team regarding service provision during COVID-19. Click here for further support during COVID-19.
Please read this before attempting these exercises
Normally it is advised that if you have health concerns you consult your doctor before trying new exercises. This is probably not possible during the coronavirus lockdown so please use the following advice to ensure your safety and enjoyment of these exercises. Please note that Livewell Southwest cannot be responsible for any resulting problems.
- Do not do these exercises if you feel unwell.
- Do discontinue these exercises if you start to feel unwell.
- Do ensure you have had the appropriate medication (e.g. inhalers, pain relief) and if you have diabetes it is well managed beforehand.
- Do not exercise into pain; discontinue any exercise that is painful.
- Do stop and rest during the exercise as you need to.
- Do not exercise too soon after a meal.
- Do wear loose and comfortable clothing and flat, supportive shoes.
- Do exercises that feel comfortable and the right pace for you; please do not force any movements that are not comfortable.
- Do consider the seated class if you have impaired balance.
- Do use a supportive chair when doing the sitting exercises.
Try and aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity 5 times a week which can be in 10 minute bursts for the health and psychological benefits of being active. Stand up every hour to move around. Please see other links on this website for other classes possibilities or ideas.
Don’t forget the housework, gardening and going for a walk all count!
Keep active and safe and we look forward to seeing you soon.
Sarah Macpherson and Carmel Marner (MCSP)
Physiotherapy led weight management classes
There are 4 videos to try of differing lengths. There are 3 seated classes of varying lengths – approximately 15 minutes, 20 minutes and 30 minutes. This allows you to choose the most appropriate for you and progress if you like. The fourth video is a progression again to a standing circuit.
Home exercises
Recommendations aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity, 5 times a week to help keep fit and healthy. Here are some more ideas for things to do at home.
Seated warm up and stretches
Less activity can lead to increased stiffness in joints and muscles, so try these daily stretches to look after posture and flexibility. Click here to view.
Home circuit
There is a standing or seated option to help with strength, posture and cardiovascular fitness. Click here to view.
Useful online activity resources whilst at home
These are by no means exhaustive, but are a collection of those that we have found to be good. Please remember the same advice applies from our pre-exercise information before starting/trying these online. Most of these are free!
Gentler Options
Move it or lose it – 5 minute balance exercises for seniors
My Simple Steps – Tai Chi Shabashi full 18 movements (seated)
Sherry Zak Morris – chair yoga
Laterlife – exercise and looking good
British Heart Foundation: Home exercise
Something for all
NHS One You – home work out videos
NHS Livewell – exercise advice and links (e.g. strength and flexibility 5 week plan for beginners)
The Body Coach – Joe Wicks website
The Body Coach – Joe Wicks YouTube channel
Sport England – #StayInWorkOut
My Simple Steps – Tai Chi Shabashi full 18 movements (standing)
Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy has produced some useful information which you can view by clicking on the links below.
Leaflet for activity advice and balance exercises for older people
Leaflet with advice on stretching advice if sitting for too long at home
Activity information and advice, including for specific long term conditions