26/01/2026
Keeping active can really help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, but it can often be difficult to fit exercise into a busy routine. Below are 9 easy ways you can stay active and get some exercise in at home.
🚶 Take mini movement breaks. For every hour you are sat down, try to move for 5-10 minutes. Try walking around, doing a chore or going up and down the stairs a few times.
🧹 Tackle your chores. Whether it's changing your bed, hanging out some washing or clearing out your closet, seize the opportunity to move your joints and muscles while being productive too.
🛒 Stagger your food shop. Instead of doing 1 big shop in your car, do smaller, more regular trips on foot. Carrying heavy bags is great to improve strength, and extra walking will boost your fitness and heart and lung capacity.
🪜 Take the stairs. Use any excuse to take the stairs, aiming to lead 10 times with your left foot and 10 times with your right foot or as many as you can manage. This will boost your strength and stamina.
🪟 Clean your windows. Window cleaning is one household task that really helps to strengthen the arm muscles and improve range of motion at the shoulder joints.
🕺 Rediscover your inner child. Children have lots of energy, so joining in with their games will have you moving around more too.
👣 Arrange walking dates. Instead of meeting friends for lunch, why not walk and talk instead? The walk will improve your heart fitness and strengthen your muscles and bones.
💪 Try an online workout. Don’t feel like leaving the house? There are thousands of videos on YouTube for all levels and abilities, and they often don't require equipment.
🔨 Do some DIY. If there are jobs around the house you normally pay for, try doing them yourself. For example, wash your own car or do your own gardening.
Exercise helps everyone live a happier and healthier life. If you have heart and circulatory disease, it can help manage your condition and get you feeling great. Remember, if you have not exercised for some time, or have a heart condition that you’re concerned about, make sure you speak to your GP first.
