Let’s get moving
Everyone deserves the chance to lead a healthy, active life. Find out how you can make everyday movement a part of yours.
Take your first step to moving more
When we move, we’re stronger. But moving more isn't always easy, for many different reasons - including knowing how we can get started. You’re not alone if you find this difficult. In fact, in Calderdale, only 53% of adults meet the recommended 150 minutes of movement each week. Across the country, 1 in 4 adults in England do less than 30 minutes.
Not moving enough is linked to 1 in 6 deaths in the UK and is estimated to cost the economy £7.4 billion a year, including £0.9 billion to the NHS. The good news? Spending just 11 minutes of your day exercising moderately can reduce the risk of an early death.
Here in Calderdale, we’re starting to move more and inactivity levels are decreasing. By starting small and building up gradually, you can be part of that positive change.
Here, you can find the information and inspiration, from people and groups all across Calderdale, that can help you take your first step to moving more. Whether it's walking, stretching, or something else entirely - by yourself, or in a group - there's an activity that you can start today.
Quick start: 5 ideas you can try today
Even small steps, like a quick stretch, a short walk, or moving while the kettle boils, can boost your mood, balance, and energy. Moving every day makes a big difference to our lives. In fact, 95% of people who've made a change to be more active, say that it helps us feel not just physically healthier, but happier as well.
Why not…
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Stretch while the kettle boils! Roll your shoulders forward and back 5 times, tilt your head gently side to side, then look left and right. Finish with slow arm circles to loosen your upper body.
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Stand up and sit down 5-10 times from a chair. Try it hands-free if you can!
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Why not walk part of your usual route to the shops, work or school? Get off the bus a stop early or park a street or two away.
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Hold the kitchen worktop and rise onto your toes and back down again 8-10 times.
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Put music on and move while doing light chores. We like to call it a ‘two-minute tidy’!
If you’re unsure what’s right for you, or you have a medical condition or injury, check with a healthcare professional before starting new activities. Move at your own pace, listen to your body, and stop if you feel pain or discomfort.
"I have never really been a sporting person but at the age of 59, I chose to join the Sowerby Bridge Snails Running Club...Don’t be put off by your age or size (I was nearly 18 stone when I started running). It’s a great form of exercise…and Sowerby Bridge Snails' motto is ‘No snail gets left behind."
Dave - Sowerby Bridge Snails Member
"I love being able to get involved and play games with my kids. It’s nice to get away from daily chores and model healthy habits for children - and myself! I can’t remember the last time I had this much fun."
Park Ward Parkplay attendee
"Joining the group has helped me meet new friends, improve my mental and physical wellbeing, and give me a new focus on life."
Ian - Member of Halifax Sports, Boxing and Fitness Club
“As I have increased my activity over the last 12 months, I have found that when I am at my most active, I have more energy and my mood has improved.”
Gillian, Active Champion
“The changes I have made to my overall lifestyle have had a very positive impact on my emotional and mental health and made me far more willing to engage in new hobbies and activities.”
Jayne - Head of Partnerships & Programmes at VAC
“Riding a bike gives me a sense of peace and happiness. Moving through the streets, passing through narrow alleys, and discovering new routes is an incredible experience.”
- Mustafa
Find your movement: Try out our Activity Finder
Active Calderdale is not responsible for information from third parties and can't guarantee its accuracy. Clubs are responsible for keeping the details of activities up to date, please contact them directly with any questions.
This search tool makes it easy to discover classes, clubs or activities near you that match your interests. Just enter a few details and we’ll show you what’s happening nearby.
Type in an activity you’re interested in (like football or pilates), or leave it blank to see everything available:
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