Physical Activity and Men’s Health
There is overwhelming scientific evidence that physical activity is good for us, in fact it is clinically proven to be beneficial. It can lower your risk of many major illnesses such as coronary heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and cancer. It can improve bone density and reduce risk of osteoarthritis, help with weight management and improve fitness and posture. It can also help depression, anxiety, stress-management, boost self-esteem, and it can actually boost your energy levels. Find out more about benefits of exercise here.
And if that wasn’t good enough, exercise can also be free with activities such as walking and gardening, it can have immediate effects and can be a fantastic way to meet new people helping reduce loneliness and build friendships.
Let's talk about keeping our hearts happy and our minds at ease. Heart disease, is often linked with obesity and type 2 diabetes. And that's not all – our mental health can throw some curveballs like anxiety, depression, and even those sneaky feelings of loneliness and sadness.
But here's the good news: when we dive into the wonderful world of physical activity, it's like a superhero cape for our bodies and minds. Seriously, it's the ultimate combo for boosting our physical and mental well-being!
Thankfully, men’s mental health is being talked about more and more. Whether you are a student or staff member at UWE it can be tough at times and mental health problems can affect anyone but there is lots of support and resources available. Visit the health and well-being section of the UWE website for more information.
Some say physical activity could be a miracle treatment which can improve both physical and mental wellbeing. It’s not a quick fix pill and does require some commitment and dedication but we know the results are scientifically proven, and with opportunities that don’t cost a penny, financial barriers are diminished.
Government guidelines on physical activity for adults recommends that you should try to be active every day and aim to do 150 minutes a week, including a couple of strength-based activities. It isn’t just about how active you are but it is also about not staying still for too long or using a term I particularly like, ‘exercise-snacking’. This could include a short walk, taking the stairs, a few exercises at your desk or walking meetings. We know time can be limited so UWE Bristol Sport has some on demand classes and online activities such as ‘deskercise’ to help you find ways to squeeze some exercise into your day!
I personally believe physical activity has to be fun and enjoyable, this is the only way it can be maintained and incorporated as part of a lifestyle change. UWE Bristol Sport has it’s flagship activity programme available to students and staff called MOVE which has over 120 activities a week and there really is something for everyone. The activities include Yoga, Hula Hooping, Bollywood, Netball, Climbing, Badminton and many, many more. Even better, this programme is FREE for students, yes FREE! Or only £7.99 a month for staff! Find out more about our MOVE Programme here.
During November we will be supporting ‘Movember’ who are the leading charity changing the face of men’s health - Movember - Changing the face of men's health - Movember.
We'll be showcasing a diverse range of weekly activities and hosting a men's yoga class throughout the year. Be sure to stay updated on all the ongoing sessions by using the UWE Bristol Sport App.