It is no secret that keeping active as you get older improves your quality of life, keeps you healthy and helps you maintain your independence.

Staying active lowers your risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, some cancers, depression and dementia (from NHS Live Well) . The NHS recommendation for adults is 150 minutes of activity a week, which broken down is only 30 minutes, five days a week. This could be a brisk walk, an exercise class or even a giving the lawn a mow! Ideally it should be a combination of cardio and a bit of strength work but always consult a doctor before trying something completely different from what you are used to.

In East Sussex there are loads of options for older people who are looking to either start exercising or get back into keeping fit. ‘Walking’ sessions are becoming increasing popular across the county as a way to carry on enjoying your favourite sport at a slightly gentler pace.

There are now walking netball sessions in Eastbourne, Bexhill, Heathfield and Crowborough. For more information visit England Netball.

You can find walking football sessions in Bexhill, Burwash, Eastbourne, Hastings, Heathfield, Seaford and Uckfield. For more information visit Sussex FA

There are also walking cricket sessions in Ore, Bexhill and Rye.

Each of the district and boroughs within the county have their own initiatives for keeping residents active which are linked below or visit the East Sussex Community Information Service for classes across the county

Eastbourne and Lewes

Hastings

Rother

Wealden

You can also find a range Older People’s Day events throughout the rest of September and into October with discounted exercise classes at discounted rates. Maybe try a few and find something new that you love! If you do we would love to hear about it on Facebook or Twitter.