Getting more active

What

Exercise is the miracle cure we've always had, but for too long we've neglected to take our recommended dose.

All the activities we run in the Health Improvement Service are at a low level, and support people to take the first steps to get more active. There is a whole range of different activities for people to join, and we’ll help you to find something that suits you.

Remember – it’s never too late to start getting more active. Any activity is better than none, and more is better still!

Why

People who exercise regularly have a lower risk of developing many long-term (chronic) conditions, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and some cancers. Research shows that physical activity can also boost self-esteem, mood, sleep quality and energy, as well as reducing your risk of stress, depression, and dementia.

To stay healthy, the UK Chief Medical Officers' Physical Activity Guidelines, on GOV.UK, state that adults should try to be active every day and aim to do at least 150 minutes of physical activity over a week, through a variety of activities, including aerobic activity such as brisk walking, and muscle strengthening activities.

Who

Our physical activity sessions are for anyone who lives or works in Salford. You must be aged 18+ to book onto a session. Children can be brought to sessions where stated.

Where

Our physical activity sessions take place across Salford, in every neighbourhood, at a location or venue near you.

Take a look below – we’re confident there is an activity just waiting for you to get started with!

How to book

We’ve broken our physical activity sessions down into sections below. To book on to any session, you can do any of the below two options:

1. Call 0800 952 1000 and select option two
2. Email health.improvement@salford.gov.uk including the details of the session you wish to book on for

If you would like to discuss anything before booking, or for further information on any of our physical activity sessions, call us free on 0800 952 1000 (option two), Monday to Friday, 9am to 4.30pm.

You can also follow our Facebook page or X (formerly Twitter) account for lots of handy hints and tips.

Walk for wellness

Social walk around the surrounding areas at a leisurely pace. Aims to address physical, emotional, health and mental wellbeing. Please wear suitable footwear and bring some water.

Walking is one of the easiest ways to get moving and stay healthy, this group also provides the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, meet new people and learn more about leading a healthy lifestyle.

To book please call 0800 952 1000 and select option two, or email health.improvement@salford.gov.uk including the details of the session you wish to book on for.

Outdoor gym

Gentle gym exercises on outdoor equipment. Wear suitable clothing and bring a bottle of water.

To book please call 0800 952 1000 and select option two, or email health.improvement@salford.gov.uk including the details of the session you wish to book on for.

Anyone for sports?

Come and join us for kurling indoor/outdoor, bowls indoor/outdoor, tennis groups, netball groups, any sport specific session.

To book your place call 0800 952 1000 and select option two, or email health.improvement@salford.gov.uk including the details of the session you wish to book on for.

Sit down and strengthen

Gentle, fun and enjoyable way to exercise from the comfort of your chair. Everyone welcome and suitable for all abilities.

To book your place call 0800 952 1000 and select option two, or email health.improvement@salford.gov.uk including the details of the session you wish to book on for.

Couch to 5k

Do you want to have fun while getting fit and working towards a goal? In this beginners running group an instructor will guide you through the NHS Couch to 5k programme, supporting you every step of the way to gradually build your running time and distance up each week. Doing this as part of a group will make it fun an add the accountability and support from others who are at the same starting point.

To book your place call 0800 952 1000 and select option two, or email health.improvement@salford.gov.uk including the details of the session you wish to book on for.

Buggy walks

Come and join fellow mums for a social walk with your child. Designed to support and help get you back into light exercise, while enjoying some fresh air and the sights and sounds of nature.

To book your place call 0800 952 1000 and select option two, or email health.improvement@salford.gov.uk including the details of the session you wish to book on for.

Gentle beatfit

Have fun to music, learn a new skill, make friends and socialise.

To book your place call 0800 952 1000 and select option two, or email health.improvement@salford.gov.uk including the details of the session you wish to book on for.

Get active

Indoor exercise sessions such as circuits, dance sessions, and household gym.

To book your place call 0800 952 1000 and select option two, or email health.improvement@salford.gov.uk including the details of the session you wish to book on for.

Get on your bike!

Come and join the Health Improvement Team, cycling your way to fitness. No matter your ability or skills on a bike, we are here to help you and have sessions suitable for beginners and those returning to cycling.

To book your place call 0800 952 1000 and select option two, or email health.improvement@salford.gov.uk including the details of the session you wish to book on for.

This page was last updated on 1 July 2025