Fit for the fun of it!

We’re always hearing that regular exercise is an important part of keeping healthy and feeling well. But it's also important that exercise doesn't become a chore or another of those dreaded tasks we feel we have to do.

Just as a spoon full of sugar can help down the medicine, there are lots of ways to take the sting out of an exercise routine. Your bones and muscles don't mind whether you're in trendy exercise gear or not, in fact, they don't mind what you're doing at all, as long as you're working them well and regularly. Twenty minutes 3 times a week is all you need. And if you're a woman going through the menopause, bone health and weight-bearing activity has to be a top priority, even while you're having fun!

Here's a few tips to help you get your workout quota while having so much fun you'll forget you're even exercising:

• Gardening – weeding, pruning, mowing etc. just remember to take good back care.
  
• Trekking – pack a healthy lunch and head off into unchartered territory.
  
• Get off the bus 2 stops early – a great way to get to know the neighbourhood too.
  
• Dance – there's a great revival going on, so grab some comfy shoes and sign up for ballroom dancing, line dancing or even belly dancing.
  
• Volunteer – check your local council to see how you can help others while getting so much back. Opportunities range from native scrub regeneration to assisting local schools or groups with disabilities.