Latest news with #NHSCouchto5K
Edinburgh Live
15-05-2025
- Health
- Edinburgh Live
Daily ritual can reduce risk of dementia risk by 20 percent, experts reveal
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Dementia, affecting nearly a million individuals across the UK, is a syndrome associated with a decline in brain function. The most prevalent forms are Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. The syndrome can manifest through memory loss, diminished mental sharpness, judgement, and thinking speed, as well as alterations in mood, movement, and the ability to perform daily tasks. However, experts suggest that one way to lower the risk of developing dementia is by maintaining regular physical activity. Alzheimer's UK highlights that research on middle-aged or older adults indicates that exercise can lead to enhancements in cognitive abilities and memory, along with "reduced rates of dementia". Indeed, studies have demonstrated that those who engage in consistent exercise could be up to 20 per cent less likely to develop dementia compared to inactive individuals, reports Surrey Live. "Sustaining physical activity throughout midlife also seems to have the best effect on reducing dementia risk," the organisation notes. One particular study found that older adults who were least physically active had over double the risk of developing Alzheimer's compared to their more active counterparts. A recent study conducted by researchers at University College London, which was published earlier this year, delved into health data from over 450 individuals tracked since their birth in 1946. This research examined the influence of physical activity patterns across three decades on brain health at age 70. Research has revealed that physical activity, particularly before the age of 50, is associated with a larger hippocampus - the brain region primarily linked to memory. Those who maintained an active lifestyle were less likely to experience cognitive decline, even if they exhibited key markers of Alzheimer's disease. "Our findings show that staying active throughout your life, especially before turning 50, can help keep your brain healthy and delay early signs of Alzheimer's. This is especially true for women," stated the study's lead author, Dr Sarah-Naomi James. Alzheimer's UK recommends choosing enjoyable activities or using workout videos for motivation to increase exercise levels. The organisation also suggests using wearable devices like fitness tracker watches, or smartphone apps like the NHS Couch to 5K to monitor progress, and participating in group activities such as hiking, which it describes as a "great way to connect and interact with people". "Being active doesn't have to involve going to the gym or running a marathon. You are more likely to do regular physical activity if you find things you enjoy doing," explained Alzheimer's Research UK. The charity also advised being active every day and trying not to sit for extended periods. It added: "If you have to, then break it up with movement or activity of any kind."
BBC News
25-04-2025
- Health
- BBC News
Q&A: Couch to 5k
As BBC Sport launches its new The Couch to 5K Podcast - presented by Giovanna Fletcher - we have the answers to some frequently asked questions to help you get than seven million people have downloaded NHS Couch to 5K - the ground-breaking free fitness app developed in partnership with BBC out how to get started below. What is Couch to 5k? A free running plan for plan has you running three times a week and provides a fresh schedule each week. How did Couch to 5k begin? The Couch to 5K running plan was created by Josh Clark in wanted to get his mother - who was over 50 - to start running. Can you do Couch to 5k on a treadmill? If running outside isn't your thing, you can use a treadmill instead. How long does Couch to 5k take? You can complete the initial programme in nine weeks or longer, depending on the pace you wish to users graduate from the nine-week programme, they can unlock access to Beyond Couch to 5K. Is Couch to 5k free? Yes, the NHS Couch to 5k app is free and accessible to anyone. How do I get started? Download the app (details below).Pick a start a comfortable clothing and safe and be aware of your surroundings. Where can I find a Couch to 5k plan? You can join the seven million people who have already downloaded the app by clicking the links below:Apple, externalAndroid, external What are the benefits? Running can improve your heart and lung help you manage your weight (when paired with a healthy diet)...And strengthen your bones and reduce the risk of boost your mood, ease stress, and give you more confidence
BBC News
25-04-2025
- Health
- BBC News
What is Couch to 5k and how do I start?
Couch to 5K is a free beginner-friendly running plan from BBC Sport and the government's Department of Health and Social nine-week structured programme has got hundreds of thousands of people from being non-runners to be able to complete Couch to 5K - the ground-breaking free fitness app developed in partnership with BBC Sport - has had more than seven million downloads since its launch in are ways to download the NHS Couch to 5K app:Apple, externalAndroid, externalThe app assists newcomers to run three times a week, guiding beginners through a gradual transition from couch-bound spectators to confident users graduate from the nine-week programme, they can unlock access to Beyond Couch to 5K. This new feature will help motivate people to make running habitual, and aid them to improve further on speed, stamina and Department of Health and Social Care says regular running has been shown to reduce the risk of long-term illnesses, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke, as well as helping to maintain a healthier weight and improve mood and wellbeing. The Couch to 5K Podcast BBC Sport has also launched a new podcast on BBC Sounds - The Couch to 5K Podcast - presented by Giovanna the opening episodes, Fletcher is joined by BBC Radio 2 presenter Jo Whiley, TikTok star Charley Marlowe, and Lindsey Burrow - the widow of rugby legend said: "Being part of The Couch to 5K Podcast has been such a joy. Running can do wonders for your mind and body, and this podcast is all about offering support, motivation and a friendly voice to keep you going - no matter where you are on your journey."MP Ashley Dalton, minister for public health and prevention, said: "As part of our Plan for Change, we are committed to preventing ill health before it starts, including breaking down barriers to exercise and getting the nation fitter."The NHS Couch to 5K App is a brilliant example of this - it offers exactly what we all need: support, encouragement and a friendly voice cheering you on at every step."Whiley, who features in episode one of the new podcast, once disliked running but is now a coach for the Couch to 5K app."It's one of the best things I've ever done in my career - 100%," said Whiley."I have been at so many different festivals where such a variety of people of all different shapes and sizes and fitness abilities come over to me and saying 'Couch to 5K! It's changed my life!'"The first episode of The Couch to 5K Podcast is available on BBC Sounds now. Further episodes will be released weekly from 5 article is the latest from BBC Sport's Ask Me Anything team. More questions answered... Why is snooker played in silence?How do the NBA play-offs work?What is the Crucible curse?What is a tifo banner? What questions would you ask? We're looking for your questions for the Ask Me Anything team. Post them in the comments section and we'll look to answer the best of them in the future.
BBC News
22-04-2025
- Health
- BBC News
London Marathon Wolverhampton runner driven by mental health focus
A train worker who previously considered taking her own life is preparing for her first marathon with the aim of inspiring others who struggle with their mental Turner, from Wolverhampton, is taking on the London Marathon on Sunday in aid of the runner, who works for Avanti West Coast, has been a supporter of the charity since she said they helped her with her own struggles."I was considering taking my own life and I was helped by them," she said. "I have grown so much since then and I want to inspire others with my story. "Suicide impacts so many people and there is still lots of work we need to do as a society to encourage those that need help to speak up."Ms Turner began running five years ago after taking on the NHS Couch to 5K she discovered running, she said she was a "massive believer" in the positive effect it can have as she noticed an improvement in her own mental wellbeing. "I love just putting on my trainers and heading out to exercise," Ms Turner said."It makes me happy and helps me deal with the day-to-day stresses of life." Laura Woodcock, from Samaritans, said: "Amy is a total inspiration – both in her courage to share her personal experiences, and taking on her first marathon."At Samaritans, we know real examples of people overcoming suicidal thoughts can inspire others who are currently struggling to reach out for help."If you have been affected by this story the BBC Action Line has a list of organisations which are ready to provide support and advice. Follow BBC Wolverhampton & Black Country on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.
