Digital Technology
Returning to or starting new activity using digital technology is becoming more popular and in response to the pandemic, many health, exercise and wellbeing opportunities have moved or been created online for convenience at home.
Being confident accessing and using digital devices and programmes is important and if help is required, SPARK Somerset have a programme of Digital champions who may be able to pair you up with a volunteer for 1-2-1 support. More information can be found here.
Smart Phone Apps
The NHS Apps Library has a range of apps to help you manage your health and wellbeing. With apps on healthy living, diabetes, sleep, mental health and many more. Click here to find out more.
Here are a few we would recommend:
EXi: This app creates a 12 week plan based on the health information you enter, the app will then set you targets with the intensity and duration of the physical activity based on the details you provided. This app also allows your to track your progress to keep you motivated on your 12-week journey.
FlareDown: This app enables you to track your long term health conditions, such as chronic pain, mental health and diabetes plus many more. This is a journal style app allowing you to input information such as medications, food and activity and track the patterns of your condition.
Fitness Trackers
There are many ways to track your movement progress, you can use an app like the one listed above or you there are wearable activity trackers. Or if you prefer something different there are many wearable devices such as smart watches and pedometers which can be purchased online. Wearable trackers can also be linked to apps such as MyFitnessPal, so it is easy to keep an activity journal as well as compare it to your diet.
Social Media
Social media can be a great way to find activity that suits you.
YouTube has so many videos with online classes in yoga, Zumba and many more. SASP have their own YouTube channel which has videos for all abilities. There are also some virtual walks for you to march along to at home, or seated exercises for those who at the beginning of their wellness journey.
Facebook and Instagram are also a great places to connect with those in your local area, finding information on what activities and sessions are running. Facebook and Instagram also have members providing free live movement sessions for you to watch and follow at home.
