The City of London Corporation is encouraging families in the Square Mile to take small steps to improve their mental and physical wellbeing.

Having a more active lifestyle can have big benefits not only to your health, but to your family relationships, too. And just 10 minutes of exercise a day can help with conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, strengthen bones and muscles, and improve balance.

You can do this by exploring the City of London’s parks, plazas, and sports facilities, and enjoying family time together while staying fit and having fun. There are lots of local, free, and fun activities available.

That’s why the City Corporation has created an activities guide which can be found on its website at www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/smallsteps.

Here you can find the City’s parks, squares, and open spaces, subsidised access to gym and swim at the Golden Lane Sport and Fitness Centre, a list of free summer activities, a walking map, and the Active City Network – which offers a range of free support services to City workers to make active travel easier.

Chairman of the City Corporation’s Community and Children’s Services Committee, Ruby Sayed, said:

“It is really important for families to keep active. Aim for 150 minutes a week of moderate exercise that makes you feel warmer, breathe harder, and makes your heart beat faster. On two days a week, try something that works your muscles, such as yoga, exercise with weights, or carrying heavy shopping.

“There are plenty of activities and places for Square Mile families to get active in the City and we are encouraging everyone to take small steps to a healthier lifestyle.

“Together you can make the change today by making small differences to your life. It is never too late to get active to improve your health, so start small and build up.”