Get fit this summer with a garden workout

Reporter: Dr Peter Elton Director of Public Health NHS Bury
Date online: 02 July 2009

Digging, pruning, weeding, mowing – not always the first words that spring to mind when we think about breaking a sweat as part of a fitness regime.

However, an enjoyable pass time such as gardening really can help keep you active, fit and healthy – no gym membership or new running shoes required!

We should all aim to take 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days a week but that doesn’t mean you have to commit to early morning runs or stints on the treadmill. Gardening or any activity that makes you slightly out of breath and raises your heart rate can make a big difference to your overall health and well being.

For every 20 minutes spent gardening, a person burns around 160 calories, the equivalent of a 20 minute bike ride. Half an hour of trimming shrubs or trees with a manual cutter burns around 150 calories, roughly the same amount you would burn doing a twenty minute aerobic workout. Other activities such as walking and dancing are great ways to incorporate activity into your daily routine.

Eating nutritious, healthy food is also important to maintain a balanced lifestyle – so why not dig a vegetable patch and ‘grow your own’? You’ll not only be keeping fit but getting your 5 A DAY too.

Exercise really doesn’t need to be a chore, but something you can enjoy leisurely. For more ideas on how to get moving and support in adopting a healthier lifestyle, give our Health Trainers a call on 0845 071 0699.