Harnessing the benefits of physical activity across the NHS in England

By Dr. Naddia Atif (GP at Hazeldene Medical Centre) | 02 April 2025 | TAGS: health, Active Practices

New webpages for health and care professionals in England highlight the benefits and evidence base for embedding physical activity across systems and communities.

The pages include ‘four ways forward’ which support the delivery of the Government’s ambitions, with links to tools and resources which support staff to take action and to advocate for increasing physical activity.

There's also case studies that showcase innovative collaborations between local systems and partners with further topical blogs, case studies and podcasts on approaches to integration expected soon.

Visit the webpage here. 

In this blog, Dr Naddia Atif, a GP at Hazeldene Medical Centre in New Moston, encourages healthcare professionals to keep moving and how this will help them with their patients.

With advancements in science and technology, machines have made daily life more convenient in many aspects, but nothing comes without a cost. 

While ease and convenience have increased, life has also become more sedentary.

The lack of, or reduction in, daily physical activity has been proven to have many detrimental effects on one's health, including obesity, higher cardiovascular risk, high blood pressure, diabetes, increased anxiety and depression, certain forms of cancer, reduced mobility in the elderly (which increases their risk of falls), and early death. 

Guidance from the NHS states that adults should engage in some form of physical activity every day. This should include strengthening exercises that work all major muscle groups at least twice a week.

Adults should aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of high-intensity exercise spread throughout the week. It is also advised to reduce time spent sitting or lying down and to break up long periods of immobility. 

Making small changes throughout the day can increase overall activity levels, such as walking or cycling to work, getting off public transport a stop early, or parking farther from the workplace to walk some of the distance.

Setting reminders to stand up and walk for a couple of minutes every 30 minutes to break up long periods of sitting, using standing desks for office workers, taking the stairs instead of elevators, engaging in formal exercise sessions, limiting screen time, and participating in community-based activities and sports are also beneficial. 

Incorporating more physical activity into your daily routine doesn't have to be daunting or time-consuming.

Small, consistent changes can lead to significant improvements in your overall wellbeing.

With the remarkable rise in obesity, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, frailty among the elderly, and mental health problems across all age groups, prioritising movement and making it a regular part of your life can enhance not only your physical health but also your mental resilience, energy levels, and overall quality of life.

So start today, and take that first step towards a healthier, more active future. 

Dr. Naddia Atif, a GP at Hazeldene Medical Centre