How Can We Combine Fitness and Sustainability?

Written by Brett Best & Wendy Ribbons

Is there a link between the two? We think there is…

Our bodies are wonderful and an amazing part of the natural world. When we look after ourselves, we often look after the environment too. Fresh air, natural movement, local foods — what supports our health often supports the planet. And often, the choices that aren't so healthy for us aren't great for the planet either.

But before we get too deep, let’s remember: a little bit of what we fancy is fine! We all know we can't do everything perfectly. If each of us does our best — for ourselves and for the environment — we are heading in the right direction. Every little bit really does help.

What Can We Do to Keep Ourselves and the Environment Healthy in Purley on Thames?

Do we need indoor gyms when the sun is shining?
What alternatives are there?

We are lucky to have some brilliant outdoor options.
Bucknell’s Meadow, off Mapledurham Drive, has a great outdoor gym — with a bike, step machine, and some strength machines. Plus, it’s a large, open space perfect for running, walking, or playing — all away from traffic.

We’re also blessed with wonderful open spaces, the woods, and the Thames Path right on our doorstep. Why not walk, hike, cycle, jog, or run in these areas? Maybe leave the car at home and combine your walk with a shopping trip to Pangbourne, using the footpath near the railway — it’s quicker than you might realise!

And while you're out and about, you could even help our community stay beautiful by picking up any litter you see — a growing movement known as "plogging" (jogging + picking up litter).
Each Saturday morning, a local fitness group meets in Bucknell’s Meadow — they even start with a quick litter pick before their workout. It’s a great way to combine caring for our green spaces with caring for ourselves!

What Can We Use to Stay Active?

If you have a little bit of space, you can move at home too — indoors or outdoors — using everyday household items:

• Lifting a bag of sugar (about 1kg) or a couple of soup cans makes a great substitute for hand weights.

• Walking up and down stairs is a brilliant way to raise your heart rate.

• Carrying shopping bags (safely) around the house or garden can help build functional strength.

• Using a sturdy chair for triceps dips can add variety to your routine.
  

Simple functional movements like squats, lunges, push-ups, or even balancing on one leg need no equipment at all.

Speaking of push-ups, make them easier by doing them with your hands against a countertop.

Dancing around your living room is another fun way to boost your fitness — and it’s free, joyful, and completely equipment-free!

If you want a bit more, resistance bands are a low-cost, versatile way to build strength and flexibility — and they take up hardly any space when not using.

What About What We Wear?

The clothing options are endless – but some are better than others – try to use activewear made from recycled materials, organic cotton, or other eco-friendly fabrics, and if possible, look for brands that are responsible and care for the environment.   Whilst active wear can be expensive, there are alternatives in our charity shops, online resellers, or perhaps ask your friends if they have anything they are no longer using, or if you have unwanted items perhaps you can pass on?

Remember to use reusable water bottles and avoid disposable containers. 

What Other Benefits Are There?

Moving our bodies is good for our mental health as well as our physical health.

Even just five minutes in a green space has been shown in research to help improve mood and reduce stress. And here in Purley on Thames, we are lucky to have plenty of beautiful green spaces to choose from — woods, fields, riverside and railway paths, sports options and parks all on our doorstep.

·       Call a friend and head out for a walk through these lovely local spots.

·       Be mindful as you move — take a moment to hear the birds, the wind in the trees, the dogs and children playing.

·       Breathe deeply. Take long, slow breaths in and out, and feel the benefits.

·       Check out the sports options in the area (e.g. football, cricket, tennis, fitness classes, etc)

Whatever you choose to do outside, layering your clothing can help you enjoy outdoor exercise year-round, even when the weather changes — and spending time in nature doesn’t have to be long or intense to make a difference.

Taking care of ourselves and the environment doesn't have to be complicated — just a few small, thoughtful choices can make a real difference.

Please note:

Always consult a healthcare professional before beginning any new exercise programme, especially if you have any existing medical conditions or concerns. Outdoor activities involve natural surfaces and conditions — please take appropriate care to stay safe.

Also check https://www.bbwellness.uk/ for more information about fitness