Physical activity includes all forms of movement which raises the heart rate. It helps to improve mental and physical wellbeing. This includes:

• sport
• structured and organised exercise such as dancing, swimming
• active recreation (e.g. attending at gym)
• everyday activities like housework, gardening
• walking/cycling as a mode of transport

Torbay is the perfect place to get active. We have plenty of parks, beaches, leisure centres and miles of seafront to take advantage of. Just 15 minutes of physical activity a day can make a big difference to your well being.

Getting active is good for:

• your overall health
• keeping your weight down
• reducing stress levels
• improving sleep

It can also be an excellent way to get out, meet new people and discover more about the Bay.

Weekly physical activity

Being active can benefit us all, whatever our age. The amount of activity you need to do each week does depend on your age. Check the NHS Choices Fitness Guide to find out how much exercise you and your children should be doing and tips on building this into your lifestyle.

Ideas and inspiration

The "get active" section outlines opportunities such as Bay Walks, Active Mums and Connecting Actively to Nature, while the Active Devon website contains further opportunities for all ages, motivations and abilities.

Cycling in Torbay is on the up! There are many people cycling, young and old, learning or experienced. And whether you cycle to work or for pleasure alone, with your family and friends, or in a group, cycling is a great way of keeping fit and getting about without hassle, fuel costs, and on time just when you want to, avoiding all the queues and congestion. Torbay offers a range of cycle training opportunities as well as the women-only cycling opportunity, Pedal.

You can also access a sports club/activity finder as well as find out how to apply for a Torbay Leisure Card - a free card that offers Torbay residents on low incomes reduced entry charges to a wide range of indoor and outdoor sport and leisure activities.