Access to gyms 'should be improved'

People should be given more support from local authorities and the NHS to gain access to gyms and aerobics classes, a fitness group suggests.

The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) believes that many people could be risking their future health due to a lack of regular exercise.

Research by the group shows that almost two-thirds of UK adults are not enjoying enough regular exercise, which could lead to things like heart disease and strokes in later life.

The CSP's new Move for Health campaign is now aiming to highlight the importance of maintaining good health and believes help from gym classes and fitness instructors could be beneficial.

Bridget Hurley, a chartered physiotherapist and spokesperson for the CSP, said exercise does not appear to be a priority for many Britons.

She commented: "Exercise doesn't need to be expensive, boring or time consuming. Just going outside at lunchtime for a half-hour walk every day will greatly increase your fitness levels.

"One of the best ways to counteract feeling ill and tired - one of the main reasons people don't exercise - is by becoming more active, which actually gives you more energy."

The government's Change 4 Life scheme also aims to make families across the country become more active.