Move towards a healthier future this winter
08 January 2026
January is a great time to focus on making small, positive changes for your health and wellbeing. As the new year begins, creating gentle, achievable habits can help you stay active, lift your mood and feel more energised throughout the winter months. You don’t need to make big changes all at once – even small amounts of regular movement can support long-term health and wellbeing.
Every movement counts by starting with small, manageable steps you build healthy habits that fit easily into everyday life. For adults, it is recommended to aim for around 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week. This can be built up gradually and in ways that suit you. A short walk during the day, choosing the stairs instead of the lift, or some gentle stretching at home all help towards this goal. For those who enjoy more energetic activity, 75 minutes of vigorous exercise, such as jogging or an online fitness class, can offer the same benefits.
Strength-building activities are also an important part of staying well. Taking part in muscle-strengthening exercises at least twice a week can help improve balance, maintain independence and build confidence. Simple activities such as carrying shopping, using resistance bands, doing body-weight exercises at home or attending gym sessions can all make a positive difference.
Being active regularly can improve mood, support better sleep and enhance overall quality of life. Small changes made in January can help set the foundation for healthier habits throughout the year.
There are lots of welcoming and accessible ways to stay active across West Northamptonshire, including:
- Free, weekly 5K parkrun events held across the area. People are welcome to walk, jog, run, volunteer or simply come along to support others.
- Walking West Northamptonshire is a WNC led programme offering free group walks that showcase the area’s countryside, towns, canals and rivers.
- Northamptonshire Sport has a detailed activity finder which has opportunities to be active across West Northamptonshire.
- Visit one of our local leisure centres to find out more about the wide variety of opportunities to stay active.
“Staying active during the winter months can feel challenging, but even small steps make a big difference. Physical activity isn’t just about fitness; it’s essential for protecting our overall health and wellbeing. Moving regularly helps improve circulation, boost oxygen flow to the brain, and lower the risk of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and poor mental health.Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Public Health at West Northamptonshire Council
Whether it’s a short walk, joining an online class, taking part in a local group, or trying something new, every move helps build resilience and enhance quality of life. We encourage everyone to find an activity they enjoy and make it part of their routine, because investing in your health today creates a healthier, happier future for our whole community.”