Living with a long-term health condition can mean facing daily challenges such as pain, tiredness or unpredictable symptoms. It’s no surprise that being active might feel difficult, or even risky, but the important news is that physical activity is safe and beneficial, and for most people with long-term conditions, it’s a key part of standard medical care.
Physical activity plays an important role in preventing, managing and treating many conditions, from diabetes and arthritis to depression and heart disease. Research shows being active can improve mood, sleep, mobility and energy, and can even reduce symptoms and the need for some medications.
According to expert medical guidance, the risk of being active is very low for people living with long-term health conditions. In fact, doing nothing carries a much greater risk to your health and independence.
Getting started
Being active isn’t about doing more than you can manage. It’s about finding what works for you, and recognising that moving more when you can is just as important as accepting when you can’t.
- Start with what feels manageable – a few minutes of movement, spread throughout the day, is a good place to begin. Go at your own pace, start slowly and build gradually. Even a few minutes of light movement can make a difference.
- Let your condition guide you – adjust what you do based on how you’re feeling. Some days will be better than others. Take rest when needed and adjust your activity to suit how you’re feeling.
- Choose things you enjoy – whether it’s fun activities with family members, walking, stretching, gardening or dancing at home – movement you enjoy is easier to stick with, and it all counts.
- Create moments for movement throughout the day – make it part of your day. Build activity into your routine, like standing up during TV ad breaks or walking while on the phone.
- Ask for support if you need it – friends, family or a healthcare professional can help you find ideas and stay motivated.
Why not visit our Moving Stories and read the inspiring stories from people across Coventry, Solihull and Warwickshire for whom physical activity has played a vital part in supporting their physical and mental wellbeing.
Know when to pause and seek medical advice
Although activity is safe for most, you should stop and seek medical guidance if you experience:
- New or worsening chest pain
- A dramatic increase in breathlessness
- Sudden dizziness
- A rapid or irregular heartbeat
- A sudden change in vision
- A change in any of your normal symptoms that may concern you
A note on specific conditions
While activity is generally safe, some specific medical conditions do require specialist advice before starting or significantly increasing activity, such as uncontrolled heart conditions, unstable angina or certain respiratory diseases. If you’re unsure, talk to your doctor or nurse first. They can help you move safely and confidently.
Online resources
Evidence-based advice from healthcare professionals about getting active with specific conditions.
A campaign supporting people with long-term health conditions to be active in ways that work for them. Backed by 15 health charities and Sport England, it offers accessible resources like Five in Five mini-workouts, Make Your Move activity videos, and Move To Your Mood routines.
Developed by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, this initiative offers a range of strengthening exercises suitable for various abilities. The programme includes instructional videos that can be followed at home without the need for special equipment. These exercises are designed to help individuals build strength and confidence in their own space.
BBC Sounds: 10 Today | Physical activity for older people
’10 Today’ is a daily 10-minute exercise programme on BBC Sounds designed to get older adults stretching and moving, promoting physical and mental wellbeing.
Free workout videos, including strength, cardio and flexibility routines designed by fitness experts.
