GOODMOVE GUIDE:

THE BENEFITS OF EXERCISE

From boosting life expectancy to improving your mental health, there are plenty of reasons to keep active – and that doesn’t just mean sweating it out in the gym

The health benefits of exercise

The benefits of physical activity are so wide-ranging that even doctors describe it as a ‘miracle cure’. Dramatically reducing your risk of heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes and osteoarthritis, and lowering your risk of early death by 30%, it’s no wonder we’re all being encouraged to get active and avoid an overly sedentary lifestyle. To stay healthy, adults should try to be active every day, aiming for at least 150 minutes of physical activity a week*. This can range from vigorous activity, such as going for a run or to the gym, to muscle-building workouts, such as yoga and Pilates, plus walking wherever possible. And remember, the best exercise happens with clothing that makes you feel cool, confident and comfortable – which is where the Goodmove range, made from high-performance fabrics, really comes into its own.

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The social benefits of exercise

There’s nothing quite as bonding as exercising together, whether you’re sweating through burpees side by side or enjoying a sociable game of five-a-side. From group exercise classes to organised sports, physical activity has its social benefits, providing an opportunity to meet like-minded souls and share an endorphin high. Families can also take advantage of exercise as way to bond while boosting the health of every family member – doctors recommend that those between five and 18 do at least an hour’s moderate intensity exercise a day*, so scoop the kids off the sofa and head out for a family workout.

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The mental benefits of exercise

Whatever your situation, there’s no denying the last 18 months have been mentally tough and experts warn of a mental health impact for years to come. While exercise certainly can’t cure mental illness, research has shown that it can boost self-esteem, mood, sleep quality and energy, all of which are important for maintaining good mental health. Exercise can also reduce your risk of stress and depression. Finding time for yourself can be tricky, so we spoke to busy M&S staffers about how they schedule in exercise, and the mental health benefits.

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Words: Sophie Hines. *According to the United Kingdom National Health Service

WHAT TO WEAR TO THE GYM

High-performance, statement-making looks

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WHAT TO WEAR RUNNING

Keep cool, look great, run more

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WHAT TO WEAR TO WORK OUT IN SUMMER

Keep your cool in style

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Ways to pay

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THE DENIM GUIDE

HOW TO WEAR IT TOP TO TOE

STYLE ADVICE

THE FIVE BRAS YOU SHOULD OWN

SPORTSWEAR UPDATE

WHAT TO WEAR TO WORK OUT

THE CHECKLIST

WHAT TO TAKE TO COLLEGE

EDITOR’S PICK

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