Let's get moving
For some, gentle exercise like yoga can also help to create a calm headspace which supports good communication between the gut and the brain.
Gut Health
Gut and Exercise
Why is exercise important?
Regular exercise is not only a good habit for a healthy lifestyle, it’s also great for physical health and can boost gut health and mood! As well as enhancing microbiome diversity, exercise supports immune function and eases digestive transit. Picture your digestive system as a smooth flowing river, and exercise as the magical paddle that keeps things moving. By engaging in regular physical activity, you’re not only energising your body but also promoting smooth digestion.
Exercise doesn’t have to mean long runs or gym workouts
A brisk walk in the park or a game of tennis counts too! Finding an activity that you enjoy will mean that you’re more likely to stick with it and continue to reap the benefits of an active and healthy lifestyle.
Make Fitness Fun
Top Fitness Tips by David Birtwistle
We’ve teamed up with Health Performance Coach, David Birtwistle, to share his top fitness tips to help keep your gut happy and support your overall wellbeing.
Warm Up
Kick off your workout right with a quick 10 minute warm-up. Begin with gentle stretches, progress to dynamic movements and lunges. This preps your mind and body, elevates your heart rate, and boosts blood flow for enhanced oxygen delivery to your muscles.
Tip: Try exercises like cat-cow, reach-through, YTW, and hip flexor lunges.
Build Your Strength
Boost your strength with muscle strengthening exercises using weights, whether it’s your body weight or equipment. These exercises are vital for maintaining everyday functionality. Not only do they support gut health, but they also reduce gut inflammation and combat age-related bone and muscle loss.
Tip: Allocate 15 minutes to your routine for strength exercises, including moves like half-kneeling overhead.
Don't Forget About Cardio
Turn cardio into a manageable routine with simple activities like walking, light jogging or swimming. Cardio involves elevating your heart rate, breathing faster, and feeling warmer. It’s not just about running. Physical activity also enhances blood flow to the digestive muscles, aiding the movement of food through the digestive tract.
Tip: Incorporate 15-minute cardio bursts into your routine. Try intervals of rowing, cycling, or running. Start small and gradually increase intensity over time.