Blog

<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" data-mce-selected="1"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;"><figure id="figure-u1l23by8gmnxaiztg"><img id="u1l23by8gmnxaiztg" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/144Rxq5bCEb2F9KpNfH5WVPRQRWJpuoOpYzyzMirN8DSJcnEKRDS5B7gAlq2pd7Q.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 100% 30%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="Lauren Ede, Lauren Elizabeth Dance" data-positionx="100%" data-positiony="30%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/144Rxq5bCEb2F9KpNfH5WVPRQRWJpuoOpYzyzMirN8DSJcnEKRDS5B7gAlq2pd7Q.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 100% 30%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Lauren Ede, Lauren Elizabeth Dance Lauren delivers our Seated Dance sessions in Gosport. </figcaption></figure></td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">About You &amp; Your RoleHow long have you been working with Be Active Hampshire? "I have been working for Be Active Hampshire since August 2025."What first got you involved with the programme? "I saw a post on Facebook and I thought the concept was brilliant. I had a look at the website and applied. The team are lovely and are all passionate about the programme."What sessions/classes do you currently run or support? "I run Seated Dance classes at St Faiths Hall in Gosport on a Tuesday 9:30-10:15am"</td></tr></tbody></table>Your “Why”What inspires you to teach or support people to be more active? "I love teaching classes for those that are not sure where to start, in terms of exercising. Being able to offer guidance, support and fun classes that enhance overall wellbeing is so important."What’s your favourite part of your role? "My favourite part of the role is getting to know each participant; I can plan the music and choreography based on their likes and dislikes."What motivates you on the tough days? "Doing something I know makes a difference and that is enjoyable. My role is to connect people's physical and mental wellbeing through movement and support. The classes are about having fun and knowing I have a job that is creative and energising is what keeps me motivated."Do you have a favourite type of exercise or class to teach? "I love teaching a variety of classes, I particularly enjoy the classes that are a relaxed pace and more based on mobility and social connections."Impact &amp; CommunityWhat changes have you seen in participants or the community? "I have loved seeing the friendships that have been formed in classes. People from different walks of life finding connection and a shared joy for movement. I have noticed a change in the community asking about classes to go to once they have finished their programme with Be Active Hampshire. It has been lovely to hear people week by week tell me the improvements they have made, both physically, socially and emotionally."What does “being active” mean to you personally? "Being active for me is one of 3 things, enjoying a walk (usually down the beach), going for a run or taking a dance class. I find those are my active things that make feel active at my best. There's no point trying to be active at something you don't fully enjoy."-Lauren Ede, Lauren Elizabeth Dance, Gosport&nbsp;

Instructor Highlight - Lauren Ede

Sharon and Emily are based in Waterlooville at Believable HQ and their instructors deliver our Yoga, Chair Yoga, Disco Yoga, Fit Steps and Walking sessions.&nbsp;"We (Sharon &amp; Emily) &nbsp;have been working with Be Active since January 2026.&nbsp;We initially took on 20 new members &nbsp;and they have joined in our activities most weeks.&nbsp;In Waterlooville we offer chair yoga, yoga, disco yoga, fit steps &amp; a walking group so the members have been able to give whatever they want a try.&nbsp;We run weight loss support groups from our unit and wanted to run activities for our community in a place members could feel comfortable and safe and this is exactly what we’ve delivered. The sessions are open to everyone and we now have quite of few new members participating in our activities with JJ, Monira &amp; ourselves.&nbsp;We love to see people come in and watch them grow in confidence and have fun with us while getting more active. We love to see how comfortable they feel in our unit and actually enjoy moving. The disco yoga is particularly funny with us all learning our lefts from our rights - it’s not easy moving arms and legs at the same time!!&nbsp;It’s an absolute pleasure to join in with all these activities ourselves &amp; have fun together. " Sharon &amp; Emily, Believable HQ, Waterlooville<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" data-mce-selected="1"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;"><figure id="figure-zlgeibct4rmnxaf1kl"><img id="zlgeibct4rmnxaf1kl" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3bdLVvpS4BhsvEOSEBsmxQaY8jxCTQ5ePd2YxvcndbLFCV6dv7xaDDdsadqI99Rz.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="- Sharon &amp; Emily, Believable HQ" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3bdLVvpS4BhsvEOSEBsmxQaY8jxCTQ5ePd2YxvcndbLFCV6dv7xaDDdsadqI99Rz.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">- Sharon &amp; Emily, Believable HQ </figcaption></figure></td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;"><figure id="figure-ho0jeefuzmnxaf9xk"><img id="ho0jeefuzmnxaf9xk" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38y6RYn34mINkFlEi8X1HXHpUUea6uLPdX7fQiGjY7U7ZRj4y7fFRMq7Cv6Exf3p.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 30% 30%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="." data-positionx="30%" data-positiony="30%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38y6RYn34mINkFlEi8X1HXHpUUea6uLPdX7fQiGjY7U7ZRj4y7fFRMq7Cv6Exf3p.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 30% 30%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">.</figcaption></figure></td></tr></tbody></table>

Instructor Highlight - Sharon & Emily

<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" data-mce-selected="1"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;"><figure id="figure-iet3zqhe5wmnx9s8hy" class=""><img id="iet3zqhe5wmnx9s8hy" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/31Rdza6lZAGsXuktWJNWNKRPLth6ELuqlRsVvkWjIAmdPH3yKE65RX2oGBQXLEA3.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 30% 20%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="Fran Maretic - Limitless Arts" data-positionx="30%" data-positiony="20%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/31Rdza6lZAGsXuktWJNWNKRPLth6ELuqlRsVvkWjIAmdPH3yKE65RX2oGBQXLEA3.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 30% 20%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Fran Maretic - Limitless Arts. Fran delivers our Dance sessions in partnership with Love 4 Life and Key to Joy charities in Fareham.</figcaption></figure></td><td style="width: 90%;" data-mce-style="width: 90%;">About You &amp; Your RoleHow long have you been working with Be Active Hampshire? "I’ve been working with Be Active Hampshire for around four months." What first got you involved with the programme? "I was inspired by the opportunity to help people become more active and build confidence, particularly individuals with special educational needs and disabilities. Supporting inclusive access to movement and fitness is something I’m really passionate about."</td></tr></tbody></table>What sessions/classes do you currently run or support? "I currently lead two dance sessions for SEN groups in Fareham, creating engaging and accessible classes for all abilities. Alongside this, I also teach both dance and drama to children in mainstream settings as well as children with special educational needs, ensuring all young people have the opportunity to express themselves and enjoy being active."Your “Why”What inspires you to teach or support people to be more active? "I love bringing joy to people and creating a space where everyone can have a laugh. One of my favourite things is when participants don’t even realise they’re exercising, they’re just having fun!" What’s your favourite part of your role? "Definitely the fun! Seeing people smile, relax, and enjoy themselves is what it’s all about."What motivates you on the tough days? "Music is a big motivator for me—putting on a great song can instantly lift the energy and turn the day around." Do you have a favourite type of exercise or class to teach? "Dance is always my first love, but I also have a real passion for drama and love bringing that into sessions where I can." Impact &amp; CommunityWhat changes have you seen in participants or the community? "It’s been amazing to see people grow in confidence, especially adults who might not usually try something new saying, “That looks fun, I’ll give it a go!” What does “being active” mean to you personally? "To me, being active is about moving your body every day in a way that feels good, even if it’s something small. It all counts!"-Fran Maretic, Limitless Arts, Fareham

Instructor Highlight - Fran Maretic

Mature man with diabetes and continuous glucose monitor on his arm making sport exercises at home

If you’re new to the gym, or just starting out with group exercise, you’ll likely come across a whole host of terms you’ve not heard before. Never fear, our glossary is here!Active recovery - low intensity exercise to keep the blood flowing and help muscles recover after you’ve completed strenuous activity. It can be during rest periods in activity like HIIT or cool down.Cardio - aerobic exercise which primarily uses oxygen to adequately meet energy demands during exercise. It strengthens our major organs and is great for our heart and lungs.Circuits - a combination of 6 or more exercises performed for either a set number of reps or a set amount of time. One circuit will be completing all the exercises planned, and you can complete multiple circuits in one session.Dropsets - a technique for continuing an exercise with a lower weight once muscle failure has been achieved at a higher weight.Dynamic stretches - movement-based stretching where instead of holding a position you move the joint stretching the surrounding muscles.Endurance training - movement that increases your breathing and heart rate, like walking, jogging, swimming. It improves heart and lung function as well as overall fitness.Fat burning zone - You’re considered to be in the ‘fat burning zone’ when you’re working out at roughly 70-80% of your maximum heart rate.Flexibility – The range of movement freely of a particular joint that is pain free.HIIT - High Intensity Interval Training - this is when you are working at your maximum for short periods, with short periods of rest in-between.Intensity - refers to how hard the exercises feel to you.Mobility - The ability to move freely.Moderate activity - activity that causes you to breathe heavily while still being able to hold a short conversation. You find the exercises challenging but still somewhat comfortable.Plyometrics - exercise involving rapid and repeated, contracting and relaxing of the muscles to increase strength.Progression - developing the movement, gradually increasing it to a more advanced exercise.Pyramid - a stepped approach to sets and reps. This could mean starting off with a light weight and increasing each set, or it could be that you add another exercise into the set i.e star jumps- rest- star jumps, mountain climbers- rest- star jump, mountain climbers, press ups.Regression - to return to a former exercise or less intense exercise.Rep - repetition - the action of completing a single movement. i.e 10 reps of bicep curls (repeating the movement of bicep curl 10 times).Rest - time taken between sets to rest your muscles. Can be just 10-20 seconds before working the same muscle group again.Rest day – a day where no intense exercise or physical activity is performed and only light intensity activities are done.RPE scale - rate of perceived exertion scale - this is a scale of how you feel during physical activity to indicate what intensity you’re working at.Sets - how many reps you will complete between periods of rest. For example, if you do 2 sets of 10 bicep curl reps, you’ll complete 10 reps, rest, then another 10 reps.Stamina - the ability to sustain prolonged physical or mental effort.Static stretches – holding a position still where you feel a stretch in the muscle for a particular length of time.Strength training - also called resistance training, it involves the physical performance of an exercise designed to improve strength and endurance. This can include exercises using weight or your own bodyweight.Super sets - performing one set of an exercise, then immediately switching to another exercise and then doing another set.Tabata - a type of HIIT training consisting of 8 sets of 20 seconds of exercise at maximum effort followed by 10 seconds rest.Trisets - a sequence of 3 consecutive exercises without intervening rest.Vigorous - this means you’re working very hard, unable to talk, and breathing very heavily. You can’t withstand vigorous exercises for long periods of time. Want support to get moving?We hope this has helped you feel more confident in getting started. But if you’re still unsure where to start, don't worry we can help you find what’s right for you! Be Active Hampshire is a free 12-week programme designed to help you move more - gently and at your own pace. Our sessions are beginner-friendly and focused on helping people feel better, inside and out.📞 Call us: 02382 512366 📧 Email: hello@beactivehampshire.org.uk 🌐 Visit: www.beactivehampshire.org.uk

Brushing up on exercise terms

Curvy african american woman laughing outdoors with friends in background

Let’s face it...staying active can feel pricey. Gym memberships, fancy gear, fitness apps... it all adds up. But the good news? Moving more doesn’t have to cost a penny. In fact, some of the best ways to boost your health are totally free and right on your doorstep here in Hampshire.Whether you're in Gosport, Andover, Eastleigh, or somewhere in between, there are loads of ways to get moving without dipping into your wallet.<h3>🚶‍♀️Start with a Walk </h3>Walking is one of the simplest, most underrated ways to improve your health. No special kit, no need to book anything, no stress.And in Hampshire, we’re spoiled for choice:- New Forest trails with ponies and peaceful woodland views - South Downs National Park for big skies and fresh air - Town loops in places like Aldershot, Basingstoke, and Waterlooville - Coastal paths along Lee-on-the-Solent or Emsworth Harbour Whether it’s a brisk 10-minute lap around your local park or a weekend wander with friends, every step counts. If you want to make it more fun, pop on a podcast or invite a neighbour to join you.<h3>&nbsp; 🛋️ Free &amp; Easy Movement Ideas</h3> You don’t need expensive kit or a fancy plan to move more. Here are a few low-pressure, no-cost ways to get your body going:<ul><li>March on the spot during TV ad breaks</li><li>Stretch it out while the kettle boils</li><li>Play tag in the garden or local green space with the kids</li><li>Try a free online workout—YouTube is full of gentle beginner routines</li><li>Do a tidy-up dance—put on music and clean at top speed</li><li>Use local outdoor gyms, often tucked away in community parks</li></ul>The key is to find movement that feels good—and that fits into your life. No need to sweat buckets. Just get moving in a way that works for you.<h3>&nbsp; 💚 Need Extra Support?</h3>That’s Where Be Active Hampshire Comes In! If you’re ready to take the next step, without the pressure of doing it alone, Be Active Hampshire is here for you.We’re a free, friendly programme that supports people across Hampshire to move more, feel better, and build healthy habits that actually stick.Whether you’re completely new to exercise or just getting back into it, we’ve got your back. Our sessions are designed for people who aren’t doing much activity right now—so no lycra or judgement needed.<h3>What’s on offer?</h3> ✅ Free local sessions—from group walks to fun sports and friendly fitness ✅ Supportive coaches who understand life can be hectic, expensive, or overwhelming ✅ Tailored help if you’ve got long-term health conditions, low confidence, or just don’t know where to start ✅ Welcoming spaces—we run sessions in community centres, parks, and halls across Hampshire including Leigh Park, Bridgemary, Andover, and more ✅ Easy self-referral—no GP needed, just get in touch and we’ll help you find the right fitWe're not about strict rules or fast fixes. We're about real people, making small changes, with support that feels personal.<h3>&nbsp; Ready to Get Started?</h3> Wherever you are in Hampshire, there’s something for you. And best of all? It’s all free.📞 Call us: 02382 512366 📧 Email: hello@beactivehampshire.org.uk 🌐 Visit: <a data-mce-href="http://www.beactivehampshire.co.uk" href="http://www.beactivehampshire.co.uk">www.beactivehampshire.org.uk</a>Let’s get moving—one easy, affordable step at a time.

Low-Cost Ways to Move More in Hampshire

Lazy overweight woman resting on sofa at home

Getting enough sleep is one of the best things you can do for your health. Most adults need around 7–8 hours a night to function well. Sleep gives your body time to repair, boosts your mood, improves concentration, and helps your mind and body feel more balanced. It’s also linked to long-term heart health, weight management, and a stronger immune system.If you're struggling to drift off or stay asleep, regular movement can make a big difference.<figure id="figure-57xfwm7gsmbkqfkqc"><img id="57xfwm7gsmbkqfkqc" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/205aBJ5hxYeyFBFLWNFVZsYi15x3qMNgZmaoIUHZig9T0mZc4c7DALOEQJ4eqtww.jpeg" alt="Young sleepless woman in trouble" title="Young sleepless woman in trouble" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>How physical activity supports sleep Staying active can help reduce stress, anxiety and low mood—all things that often keep us awake at night. Exercise may also help manage sleep conditions like restless leg syndrome or sleep apnea.And quite simply, when you move your body more, it naturally feels more ready to rest.How much activity do I need to sleep better? The more movement you can build into your routine, the better. The NHS recommends:<ul><li>150 minutes of moderate activity a week or 75 minutes of vigorous activity</li><li>Plus strength-based exercise on at least two days a week</li><li>Children and teens should aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day.</li></ul>&nbsp; When is the best time to exercise? Early morning or afternoon exercise is ideal—it helps reset your body’s sleep-wake cycle, also known as your circadian rhythm. Exercising outdoors during the day also exposes your body to natural sunlight, which helps you feel more alert during the day and sleepier at night.&nbsp; What if I don’t have time or don’t like the gym? You don’t need to spend hours at the gym to see the benefits. Try jogging, walking, cycling, or home workouts like short circuits or stretching sessions. Online videos and apps offer loads of options that can fit around your life.Adding little bursts of movement to your day—like walking instead of driving or taking the stairs—really adds up.“Exercise just bores me.” You might not have found the right activity yet. Think about what you enjoy:<ul><li>Do you love a bit of company and team spirit? Try a team sport or group session.</li><li>Prefer some quiet time? Swimming or solo walks might be more your thing.</li><li>Enjoy dancing, boxing, or yoga? There’s something for everyone—you just need to find your fit.</li><li>Asking a friend or family member to come along can also make things easier and more fun.</li></ul>&nbsp; “I don’t have time to exercise.”Fitting activity into your routine doesn’t have to mean blocking out hours. Many gyms offer early morning or evening classes, and there are tons of online options for short workouts at home.Try building in simple swaps: <ul><li>walk where possible</li><li>Sretch during TV breaks</li><li>Take the stairs more often.</li></ul> It all counts.&nbsp;<img id="b2n30gsijmmbkq8qj1" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/14ZmWkH7Y2i9IlAQfu6sBqGlM8SFkr4Uc7HNLsNLkaalTUfaRBQ0Y7qoX89Kj7cb.jpeg" alt="Happy fit woman cheering and celebrating" title="Happy fit woman cheering and celebrating" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/14ZmWkH7Y2i9IlAQfu6sBqGlM8SFkr4Uc7HNLsNLkaalTUfaRBQ0Y7qoX89Kj7cb.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;">“Exercise makes me feel wide awake.”Some types of exercise (especially high-intensity ones) can leave you feeling energised. That’s great in the morning, but not ideal before bed.Try to leave at least an hour between your workout and bedtime. This gives your adrenaline and cortisol levels time to settle and helps your body temperature drop—both of which make it easier to sleep.&nbsp; “I still can’t sleep, even when I’m active.” Sometimes, other habits are getting in the way. Here are some tips that can help:<ul><li>Stick to a consistent sleep routine</li><li>Cut down on caffeine, especially in the afternoon and evening</li><li>Avoid vigorous activity right before bed</li><li>Wind down with calm activities and limit screen time before sleep</li><li>Keep your sleep environment dark, quiet, and cool</li><li>Avoid eating big meals close to bedtime</li><li>Keep a notepad by your bed—writing down any racing thoughts</li><li>can help clear your mind</li><li>Good sleep is just as important as staying active and eating well. Looking after all three can help you feel your best, both physically and mentally.</li></ul>&nbsp; Want support to get moving? Be Active Hampshire is a free 12-week programme designed to help you move more—gently and at your own pace. Our sessions are beginner-friendly and focused on helping people feel better, inside and out.If you’re looking to improve your sleep, your mood or just your general wellbeing, we’re here to help you take the first step.<a data-mce-href="http://www.beactivehampshire/sign-up" href="http://www.beactivehampshire/sign-up">🟢 Find out more and sign up here</a>

Blog

Instructor Highlight - Lauren Ede

Instructor Highlight - Sharon & Emily

Instructor Highlight - Fran Maretic

Brushing up on exercise terms

Low-Cost Ways to Move More in Hampshire

Sleep Better by Moving More