Fitting exercise into a busy schedule can be a roadblock to a successful regime. However, people do not need to dedicate large amounts of extra time to exercise to see the benefits.

Here are some tips for fitting physical activity into a busy schedule:

• See which car journeys you can replace with walking or cycling. Is driving to work or school necessary?
• People who commute to work by public transport could try getting off their bus or train a few stops early and walking the rest of the way.
• Housework, gardening, and going up and down the stairs while doing chores also qualify as physical activity and can help people meet the guidelines productively. People will likely gain the most benefit from exercises they enjoy and that fit their lifestyle.

Some of the examples below are the easiest to fit into a daily routine:

• Go for a brisk 30-minute walk five times every week.
• Walk your dog more often or go for walks with friends.
• Join some exercise classes that are fun, collaborative, and educational.

Exercise is sometimes a gradual learning curve. A person should spread sessions across the week and scale up the intensity slowly.

It is important for people to ensure they drink plenty of water during and after exercise.

Any exercise is better than none for people who currently have an inactive lifestyle.

It is worth remembering that even 10-minute bursts of physical activity during the day provide health benefits.

Best wishes, David