People living with long-term health conditions across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are being encouraged to discover the life-changing benefits of moving more, as a We Are Undefeatable campaign launches across the region.
Developed by physical activity charity Energise Me, alongside NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight and Public Health teams from Hampshire, Portsmouth, Southampton and the Isle of Wight, the campaign supports people living with long-term health conditions to be active in ways that work for them. The campaign recognises that living with a health condition can make being active more challenging, but that every achievement, however small, deserves to be celebrated.
The launch comes as the UK's Chief Medical Officers continue to reinforce one simple but powerful message: any physical activity is better than none, and more is better still. The latest guidance highlights that the biggest improvements in health come when people move from being inactive to doing even small amounts of activity. For most people, the health benefits of physical activity far outweigh the risks.
Dr Lara Alloway, Chief Medical and Neighbourhood Officer for NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, said: “Supporting people to live well with long-term health conditions is a key part of neighbourhood health. Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to improve physical health, mental wellbeing and quality of life and the updated Chief Medical Officer guidance reinforces that every move counts. The Hampshire and Isle of Wight ‘We Are Undefeatable’ campaign highlights that there is no single way to be active – what matters is finding something that works for you. Together with our local authority, voluntary and community partners, we're committed to helping people access the encouragement and opportunities they need to move more in ways that are enjoyable, achievable and sustainable."
Through the campaign, people will be encouraged to discover local activities, practical advice and inspiring stories from local people living with long-term health conditions who have found ways to become more active in ways that suit them.
The campaign reinforces that people do not have to achieve the recommended 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week immediately. Instead, the focus is on helping people start where they are, move in ways that feel achievable and build activity gradually over time.
People living with long-term health conditions, as well as carers and family members, are encouraged to access free advice, inspiration and local opportunities through the We Are Undefeatable campaign.
The stories in the campaign will also be used in the training of health professionals, so they feel better equipped to talk to patients about being active with a health condition.
For more information about being active with a health condition and to discover support available across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, visit the campaign site.
