Physical activity and good mental health can go hand in hand if you get involved, seek support and stay positive.

The last year has tested us all with the Covid pandemic taking its toll on our fitness, mental health and wellbeing.

Covid restrictions have often meant we have been unable to follow our usual routines of visiting the gym, meeting for regular activities and exercising with friends.

More than a third of over 55s say their strength has noticeably declined since the outbreak of the pandemic according to latest figures from Sport England – 37 per cent say they are doing less physical activity than they were this time last year. 'Deconditioning' – a loss of physical strength and capability – is putting people at greater risk of falls and ill-health in later life.

Now, as we begin to emerge from lockdown and enjoy the warmer summer months, it's vital we once again focus on our health and wellbeing. And there's plenty of help available.

Get active!

There's a host of activity ideas on the OneYou website - www.oneyoulincolnshire.org.uk/lincolnshire-residents

This includes a team of dedicated physical activity coaches on hand with a range of 1:1 and group sessions designed to get you moving more and achieving the recommended 150 minutes of physical activity per week.

'Get Healthy, Get Active' programmes provide a number of links with community based activity programmes such as Pilates, aqua aerobics and walking football.

And there is support for people to make simple changes towards a longer and happier life, providing the tools, motivational support and encouragement.

Through Connect to Support Lincolnshire - www.lincolnshire.connecttosupport.org/ - there are lists of local groups, activities and venues to get involved in from sports to vitality exercise to music, yoga, tai chi and much more.

We also have 2,500 miles of Public Rights of Way for you to enjoy in Lincolnshire including some wonderful countryside in the Wolds. Find further information about walking, cycling, and horse riding routes on our website here:

www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/coast-countryside/walking-cycling-horse-riding

The Ramblers and Lincolnshire Coop Walking for Health scheme provides a network of volunteer-led free walks across the county - for information email [email protected] or telephone 01522 544 632

Or why not download the gojauntly app to your phone - https://www.gojauntly.com/ - for suggestions for walks with maps and directions for your local area

Visit Lincolnshire also has a Facebook page with regular posts for walks - www.visitlincolnshire.com/

Mental health and wellbeing

Good positive mental health goes hand in hand with fitness and feeling physically good about yourself.

The challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic have brought the importance of mental health and wellbeing into even sharper focus.

It's important that if you feel stressed, anxious or low from time to time, doing something positive to help yourself can make a real difference.

Our 12 positive steps to better mental health is a good starting point to highlight some simple tips: www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/health-wellbeing/mental-health/1

For mental health support call the Samaritans on 116 123

You can also call the Mental Health Matters helpline on 0800 0014331or go to www.lpft.nhs.uk/contact-us/need-help-now

If you need to self-refer visit www.lpft.nhs.uk/steps2change/accessing-our-services/self-referral

To connect with others visit the Connect to Support website listed above and for lifestyle changes like healthy eating, weight loss, reducing smoking and drinking visit One You Lincolnshire – it's not just about exercise!

Councillor Mrs Wendy Bowkett, Executive Councillor for Adult Care and Public Health, said: "There's never been a more crucial time to look after our fitness and mental health. After enduring the most difficult period of our lives with the covid pandemic it's time to make sure we recover our strength and wellbeing – especially those who have suffered illness.

"There is lots of support out there with plenty of opportunities to enjoy our wonderful county during the summer months. Make sure you try to stay healthy and well. We all deserve to feel good about ourselves.."

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