Sunderland residents: health and fitness advice
Many of us struggle to lose weight, and to keep it off long-term. But while many of us gain weight gradually over time, up to 48 per cent of people admit to gaining weight during lockdown – and we know carrying excess weight increases our risks of some cancers, diabetes, heart disease and Covid-19.
Where can I get help?
Last week Public Health England in partnership with the NHS launched its ‘Better Health’ campaign to support people to achieve a healthy weight. This includes the ‘Better Health Let’s Do This app’, a structured 12 week weight management programme
You can also download the free NHS 12-week weight loss plan to help you start healthier eating habits, be more active and start losing weight.
You could also try the One You app or www.nhs.uk/oneyou/ which offers a range of interactive tools and self-assessments to get a personalised idea of steps you can take to feel better and be a healthier you. Both apps are available to download from the app store and google play.
Make the most of what’s on your doorstep
We’re lucky enough to have beautiful beaches and award winning parks on our doorstep, not to mention maintained cycleways including the end of the C2C and scenic walking routes www.seeitdoitsunderland.co.uk/ and www.sunderlandheritagetrail.org/#home provides up to date information on what’s available nearby.
Active Sunderland@Active Sunderland on Facebook and @ActiveSland on Twitter also have information about current and upcoming events online at:
Everyone Active which manages leisure centres in the city have web pages for each centre at www.everyoneactive.com and also share information via social media.
Sunderland also has some of the best community football facilities in the country:
Downhill iGym (Gym located inside the football hub)
Coming soon - the Ford Football Hub
Sunderland FC’s Foundation of Light also run Fit Black Cats – a 12 week fitness and healthy lifestyle programme aimed at Sunderland AFC fans aged between 35-65, who want to lose weight and make a life-style change. It is a free programme for men and women, delivered by coaching staff from the Foundation of Light, and takes place in and around the Stadium.
The Beacon of Light - Get Out Get Active Beacon of Light successfully reopened its doors on Monday August 10 for kids’ holiday courses, and is now extending its offering, thanks to funding support from Get Out Get Active (GOGA), with many activities costing just £2, including table tennis, badminton and fitness sessions.
You can also book an outdoor 3G five a side pitch or casual kickabout pitch.
Bookings can be made over the phone on 0191 563 4777
If you are thinking about losing weight all of the suggestions here can help, along with getting the balance right between healthy eating and moving more. But please remember to follow the most up to guidance on social distancing, hand washing and the use of face coverings. When using public facilities in parks and open green spaces please consider using anti-bacterial hand gel or wipes. Latest advice here.