Inexpensive gifts that can help improve your health
(18/02/2010)

Public Health staff at NHS Barnsley have compiled a list of the top 10 gifts for under a tenner that could improve your health.

Boxing Mitts
Good for: Heart, Lungs
Taking part in non contact boxing training that gets you slightly out of breath will help you achieve the above, without the risk of injury associated with contact boxing.

Pedometer
Good for: Heart & Lungs
Almost everyone can integrate even a small amount of walking into their everyday lives. Walking can be done at a pace and a time to suit you. Best of all, it is free and can contribute to your recommended levels of physical activity.

Dance lesson
Good for: Heart, Lungs
It is recommended that all adults take part in at least 30 minutes of activity on at least five days a week that leaves you slightly out of breath. Doing this will help you to maintain good health throughout your life. The recommended levels for children are 1 hour every day, including activities incorporating running, skipping, jumping, etc.

Sudoko puzzle book
Good for: Mind
Can help boost mental clarity

Hand and Leg weights
Good for: Arms & Leg muscles
Can build up muscle strength for those wanting a little bit more out of their exercise sessions, whilst working towards their 5 x 30 minute goals

Free Trial Gym membership
Good for: Whole body
Regular attendance, under the right supervision, can help you achieve your 5 x 30 minutes recommended levels of physical activity

Swiss ball
Good for: Stomach and other muscles when following supervision instructions
Follow the instructions to achieve a range of health gaining benefits.

Low fat cookbook
Good for: Whole body
Helps reduce risk of Diabetes, Coronary Heart Disease & Stroke

Exercise / elastic bands
Good for: Various muscles when following supervision instructions
Used in conjunction with your 30 minutes of physical activity on at least 5 days a week can improve muscle tone and flexibility

Skipping rope
Good for: Heart & Lungs
A moderate/advanced way of achieving your 5 x 30 minute target when you feel the need to advance your workout.

Remember, not all forms of physical activity are suitable for everyone. If you have any existing health problems or are in any doubt about your suitability, discuss these with your health professional prior to taking part.

Public health physical activity lead for NHS Barnsley, Alison Millbourn commented, “People don’t have to shell out huge amounts of money to join a gym or buy expensive food or equipment to help improve their health. It’s not too difficult to find an inexpensive gift either in a shop or online for a mum, favourite sister, uncle or even grandfather, that can really help motivate people towards improving their health.”