More than half of adults aren’t doing the recommended amount of exercise – blaming a lack of time and long working hours. The NHS advises that adults aged up to 64 should do “at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity like brisk walking or cycling, or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity like running” every week.
However a study of 2,000 adults found 55% don’t do enough exercise to reach this threshold. With 35% of adults doing no more than 60 minutes of activity a week, less than half the advised time.
Meanwhile as many as 15% do no exercise at all, complaining they don’t have any time or motivation to do so. “I’m too tired” was the most common excuse Brits have used to not exercise, along with “it’s too hot” or “it’s too cold”. While one in 20 have even blamed the need to do washing for not being more mobile.
The research was commissioned by Citroën, found the average British adult spends six hours a day sat down and only manages around 6,500 steps.
The brand has teamed up with 2021 Olympic finalist and current British 5km road champion, Alex Bell and her coach Andrew Henderson.
Henderson is head coach at the Leeds England Athletics Hub, and together with Alex and Citroën created the ‘Charge Up In 30 Guide’, a 30-minute workout which can be done in the time it takes to charge an electric vehicle.
Greg Taylor, managing director for Citroën UK, makers of the new ë-C3 said: “Sometimes life can get in the way of hitting your fitness goals, but it’s important that we try to make the time to keep ourselves healthy.
“With a busy schedule, it can be hard to find the time, but sacrificing 30 minutes on the sofa to get up for a walk or a run can make all the difference.”
The research, carried out via OnePoll, also found 91% of the parents polled actively encourage their children to be more active, with 50% concerned about their level of exercise.
Among the favourite activities for children were running (58%), playing football (53%), and dance (35%).
More than two thirds of parents (67%) said they exercise with their children – but for those that don’t, 22% felt it is more enjoyable doing it solo.
Greg Taylor added: “It can be fun to exercise as a family, not only does doing it together teach healthy habits, but it can help you grow familiar interests and bond over something new.
“This guide is aimed at the whole family, offering variations on each exercise. Creating a schedule where you set aside time for you and your family to get active can help in developing healthier routines.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
