When it comes to improving your health through exercise, you don’t need to be an athlete or spend hours in the gym. In fact, there are several simple activities that can boost your physical health and mental well-being, especially if you’re not currently very active. Here are five easy exercises or activities to incorporate into your routine that are perfect for beginners or those looking to ease into a more active lifestyle.

1. Walking

Walking is the most accessible form of exercise you can do. It doesn’t require any equipment other than a pair of comfortable shoes, it’s low impact, which makes it gentle on your joints, and you can adjust the pace and distance as your fitness improves. Walking helps to strengthen your heart, improve circulation and can significantly increase your calorie burn, aiding in weight management. Regular walks, especially outdoors, can also boost your mood and reduce feelings of depression and anxiety.

2. Stretching

Incorporating stretching into your daily routine can enhance flexibility, reduce muscle tension and improve your range of motion. This can make daily activities easier and reduce your risk of injuries. Stretching is also a great way to relieve stress and can be a calming activity, making it ideal for winding down before bedtime or starting your day on a positive note.

3. Yoga

Many people feel intimidated by yoga and worry it’s too complex or requires too much flexibility. But the fact is this practice, which originated in India and combines physical poses with breathing exercises and meditation, is a relatively easy to learn holistic activity that improves flexibility, balance and strength. Even simple yoga poses can help manage stress, improve mental clarity and enhance your mood. There are many types of yoga, from gentle to more physically demanding styles, so look for a class or online video that suits your level of activity.

4. Swimming

Swimming is another excellent, low-impact exercise that’s particularly good for people who find weight-bearing activities difficult or painful. It involves multiple muscle groups and gives you a cardiovascular workout that enhances lung capacity and promotes heart health. The buoyancy of water supports your body and takes the strain off painful joints, making it an ideal exercise for people with arthritis or those recovering from injury.

5. Cycling

Finally, whether you use a stationary or traditional bike, cycling is an effective way to improve your fitness without the harsh impact on your joints that running can have. It’s an excellent way to build strength in your legs and lower body and can significantly improve cardiovascular health. Cycling is also a great way to get outside and explore your surroundings, which can also enhance your mental well-being.

Each of these activities offers unique benefits that can be adapted to fit your personal fitness level, preferences and level of confidence. By incorporating a mix of cardiovascular exercise, strength training and flexibility workouts, you can enjoy well-rounded fitness that promotes your overall health and longevity.

The key to maintaining an exercise routine is to find activities you enjoy, so feel free to try different exercises to see what best fits your lifestyle. And remember, it can take a few tries before you get into a groove and start enjoying your exercise so don’t give up on the first try. Start slow and try it out for a while. And, before you do, speak with your doctor or other health professional to make sure you don’t overexert yourself.