By Leanna Wall
It is not news that having a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of us getting ill or contracting heart problems or diseases such as type II diabetes. Personally though, I have always struggled with exercise since leaving school and not having to do it as part of a P.E lesson. When it comes to fitness, I need support from others. If I don’t have someone who wants to get fit with me, it isn’t a priority I try to fit in.
Cue KiActiv…
KiActiv was introduced to me when I joined the Carers’ Centre. It is a 12 week
programme designed to get individuals increasing their physical activity
levels. It combines motivation via a trained mentor and digital technology,
using an activity tracker (like a Fitbit) and an accessible online profile
which is easy to understand. It’s much more than just counting steps, focusing
on all the things that contribute to physical activity and therefore, a healthy
lifestyle.
It has changed my life. I am now far more aware of the
amount I already did throughout the day which I didn’t give myself credit for,
breaking down that barrier for me to begin this journey in the first place. I
also have a clear understanding of exactly how much I need to be moving each
day and what I can do to reach my targets. Having a mentor I meet regularly
means I am not doing it alone and the online platform is really easy to
understand, giving me motivation to reach targets and set my own goals. I am
now fully trained as a health mentor for KiActiv, supporting carers registered
with the Carers’ Centre who want to get healthier.
I have worked together with the carers who have signed up so far, adapting the
programme to fit around differing health needs and caring situations. One carer
previously had no experience with digital technology of any kind, but this
hasn’t stopped them!
We are all becoming more aware of the amount we already do
which we wouldn’t normally consider as physical activity. The KiActiv programme
shows that all physical activity contributes to a healthy lifestyle and
reduction of health risks – you don’t need to be doing vigorous exercises at
the gym to be considered healthy!
There have been fantastic achievements from all
of those who have signed up so far, with small adjustments within daily life
leading to healthier lifestyles. Some have even rekindled their love of an old
hobby or found new ones which help them increase their activity.
If you think you would benefit from taking part in the 12 week programme and
receiving ongoing support throughout your journey, get in touch! You can call our freephone number 0800
0388 885 or send an email to info@banescarerscentre.org.uk.
