Exercise and Improve Your Wellbeing!

New research published in the British Medical Journal shows that increasing your exercise levels has enormous benefits on your health. The Canadian women who participated in exercise prescribed in primary care reported an increase in their quality of life. The BMA said,"The health benefits of exercise are so great that it is probably the most important self help treatment available. Regular exercise reduces the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory disease, type 2 diabetes, some cancers, and death from all causes. ….and is a key factor in the prevention and management of osteopenia and osteoporosis. It also promotes mental wellbeing and helps people to manage their weight."

In the UK GPs are able to prescribe free or subsidised fitness sessions for a number of conditions including depression. A study published earlier this year by the Mental Health Foundation charity found that 22 per cent of GPs now prescribe exercise as one of the three preferred treatments for depression.

So if the NHS are doing their bit to improve the nations health through exercise, what are the medical insurance companies doing for their members? For those with private health cover you may find that your provider offers reductions in gym memberships to encourage you to keep fit and active. For example, BUPA health insurance offers significant reductions for members at the following clubs: Club Moativation, Dragons, Fitness Exchange, Fitness Express, Fitness First, Harpers, Kinetika, LivingWell, Spirit Health Clubs. But if you don't have health cover would a companies' exercise incentive programme encourage you sign with them? PruHealth offers reduced premiums if you exercise regularly.