Fitness tips

Prevention Lead Gosia Bowling and Head of Emotional Wellbeing Brendan Street discuss how we can get fitter and healthier, from exercising more to having a better sleep routine.

Updated: Thursday 23 January 2025

Published: Wednesday 28 April 2021

Mixing things up and trying something different helps keep exercise interesting and the body stimulated. Whether you’re tired of your current routine, or you’re on the hunt for a new class to try out, a kettlebell workout makes a great alternative to your traditional barbell and dumbbell focused classes.

Updated: Thursday 21 November 2024

Published: Thursday 20 July 2023

Using a foam roller can be a highly effective way of improving your post-workout recovery. Helping to increase mobility, foam rolling can also reduce onset muscle soreness and aid with the function of our vascular and parasympathetic nervous systems.

Updated: Thursday 24 October 2024

Published: Monday 18 September 2023

Whether it’s functional strength or aesthetic appeal that you’re looking for, training your biceps is a vital part of any weightlifting routine. All you need is a bar and some weights or a set of dumbbells.

Updated: Thursday 24 October 2024

Published: Wednesday 4 October 2023

Running in winter: some of us love it, some of us hate it. Whether you’re training for a marathon or taking on a new year’s resolution to get a bit more active, running in the winter brings a unique set of challenges with it. Thankfully, there are several ways to make running in cold weather easier and more enjoyable.

Updated: Tuesday 8 October 2024

Published: Tuesday 8 October 2024

For fitness enthusiasts, the summer can be a challenging time. Whilst it's important to keep active during these months, doing so in the face of soaring temperatures can be uncomfortable and even dangerous. With temperatures seemingly rising year on year it’s important to adjust the way we do exercise to make sure we train safely and effectively during a heatwave.

Updated: Thursday 11 July 2024

Published: Tuesday 18 July 2023

‘Gymtimidation’ refers to both the use of new equipment and training styles as well as the feeling of intimidation when stepping into the gym. Olivia Tyler, clinical fitness regional lead at Nuffield Health, shares common scenarios of ‘gymtimidation’ and how to recognise and overcome them.

Updated: Monday 8 July 2024

Published: Friday 23 December 2022

The health of your mind and body are intrinsically linked, but only 3 in 10 people acknowledge that exercise helps their mental health, according to latest data from our Healthier Nation Index. We'll discuss how physical activity can help to prevent and manage stress.

Updated: Monday 8 July 2024

Published: Monday 15 April 2019

Whether it’s cycling, running, or swimming, you put your body through a lot during a race. As you cross the finish line and that familiar ache starts to set in, you know your body will need some TLC to get back to its best. You'll find everything you need to maximise your post-race recovery in our quick and easy guide, below.

Updated: Monday 20 May 2024

Published: Friday 15 January 2016

Overtraining occurs when we don’t give our body enough time to recover between exercise sessions. It can have a big impact on performance and the frequency at which we get injured. Whilst weightlifting and cardio are great for mind and body, adequate rest is just as important.

Updated: Friday 26 April 2024

Published: Friday 26 April 2024

What counts as physical activity? Unfortunately, this age-old question doesn’t have a simple answer. There are many different types of physical activity, all of which get us moving in different ways. Keep reading to learn more about what constitutes moderate physical activity (as defined by the NHS) and how including some vigorous movement can further improve our overall health.

Updated: Monday 15 April 2024

Published: Monday 15 April 2024

For some people, exercise is an intimidating word that conjures up images of fitness classes and marathons. The reality is that movement and exercise are for everyone, no matter what your ability or starting point. There are loads of free ways you can get moving and incorporate exercise into your day without attending the gym or pushing yourself too hard.

Updated: Monday 15 April 2024

Published: Monday 15 April 2024

If you’re fasting during the holy month of Ramadan, getting your body the fuel it needs ahead of a workout can be difficult. Thankfully, with a few adjustments, Muslims around the world are able to continue exercising and working out without the need for food or drink during daylight hours.

Updated: Friday 8 March 2024

Published: Friday 8 March 2024

As we get older, it’s important we don’t give up exercise and physical activity completely. Research suggests that regular exercise and maintaining a healthy amount of movement throughout life can significantly mitigate the negative impact of these changes.

Updated: Monday 30 October 2023

Published: Monday 2 May 2016

The twohanded (or double handed) backhand is one of the hardest shots in tennis to nail. Thankfully, if you take the time to hone your technique, you’ll be sending balls back with increased power and accuracy in no time. Explore the basics, along with some nifty tips and tricks, below.

Updated: Wednesday 11 October 2023

Published: Tuesday 10 October 2023

Tennis as a game can be broken down into a series of points that start with the serve. Because it’s a unique part of the game that doesn’t mirror the other fundamental tennis shots, learning to serve can be tricky for beginners.

Updated: Wednesday 11 October 2023

Published: Wednesday 11 October 2023

The volley is a technically difficult shot that has a huge payoff if you can get it right. The idea is to return the ball before it hits the ground, breaking up the tempo of the point by catching your opponent off guard. The technique requires great composure and anticipation, along with a good understanding of positioning on the court.

Updated: Wednesday 11 October 2023

Published: Wednesday 11 October 2023

The forehand is a staple shot in any tennis players repertoire. The ability to deliver a strong and accurately positioned ball on your dominant side is the building block for the rest of your game.

Updated: Tuesday 10 October 2023

Published: Tuesday 10 October 2023

The new year is a good time to build motivation and focus on becoming fitter and healthier, but that initial drive can lessen over time. Matt Burge, Fitness & Wellbeing Manager, shares five simple ways to help you accomplish your fitness goals.

Updated: Thursday 16 March 2023

Published: Tuesday 22 June 2021

Not getting as much exercise as you’d like? Whether you’re still working from home, or you’ve become less active since the pandemic, Professor Ben Kelly, Head of Clinical Research has five tips to help get you moving and improve your health.

Updated: Tuesday 10 January 2023

Published: Wednesday 30 March 2016