“More than 60 years of research have consistently shown that physical activity beneficially affects many physical and mental health outcomes and reduces premature mortality.”
[REF: Ekelund U, Dalene K, Tarp J and Lee I. Physical activity and mortality: what is the dose response and how big is the effect? British Journal of Sports Medicine 2020.]
The social benefits are many and include making friends, support from others, routine and purpose, reducing isolation: (Some comments NERS participants have made)
“It was a good opportunity to meet other people who had the same worries as I did”
“The sessions made me get out of the house and gave me a new interest”
“I made new friends and enjoyed the conversations we had”
“I feel much fitter and can play with my grandchildren for longer now”