Health

Health

Know the difference between hypotonic, isotonic and hypertonic sport drinks and when you should take each? We demystify the jargon

The amount of sports drinks on supermarket shelves can be overwhelming, so where do you start? Here's everything you need to know about them.
more

What muscles does paddleboarding work? Why this slower-paced sport is a surprising full-body workout

Whether you try it on a river, harbour or at sea, here's why stand up paddleboarding is a brilliant workout for your muscles.
more

Will caffeine really boost my PB? When to have that all-important caffeine-hit to improve your performance

Is caffeine really an effective sport enhancer? James Witts takes a look at the benefits of this common stimulant.
more

Energy gels vs bars: What's the difference and when is best to take them?

What are the benefits of energy gels and bars, and what's the difference between these sports nutrition options?
more

What muscles does surfing work? How this fun workout strengthens more than just your core

Surfing is a brilliant whole-body workout – we explain which muscles it uses.
more

Your regular pasty and pint could be increasing your belly fat – though whether you want to try this controversial alternative is up to you…

Swap your regular pint and pub snacks for these healthier alternatives including a pasty... with filo pastry?
more

What muscles does rowing work? How this all-over body workout will shape your physique

Whether you have access to a boat or prefer to use a rowing machine, rowing is a fantastic workout to engage a wide variety of muscle groups
more

How a gentle walk makes you brainier than a hard sprint: Results of groundbreaking study shock scientists

Can exercise really boost brain power? ,
more

How long is an ultramarathon? Jamie Laing’s Comic Relief challenge explained – plus the world’s toughest running events

From the spine of Wales to Pennine peaks, here are the UK's toughest ultra-running challenges for 2025 and how they compare to global races
more

Is there such a thing as healthy belly fat? Sort of - and the best news is it's easy to make it healthier

Does your body have a hidden superpower when it comes to managing those extra pounds?
more

Why oh why do my legs hurt for days after a long walk or run?

The reason your legs can hurt for a long time after exercise is something called DOMS and here's what you need to know says James Witts
more

I'm BBC Countryfile Magazine's managing editor and an avid runner — here are the winter running essentials I swear by

Tried and tested by yours truly, these are the things I don't leave the house without.
more

What is Blue Monday, and when is it?

We take a look at the phenomenon that is Blue Monday – but what is it, and why does it make us feel so blue?
more

Use nature as your own free gym with these easy outdoor workouts – for any age

Exercising outdoors will not only give you a physical boost, but a mental one too. Here's how to build strength without splashing out on a membership...
more

This vitamin will help you defy ageing – how to make sure you're getting enough of it during the winter months

Vitamin D, also known as the 'sunshine vitamin, is essential for bone and mental health.
more

Why’s my joint pain worse in the winter? 

is it true joints can be affected by the weather? James Witts looks at the evidence
more

Suffer from gout, like Henry VIII? Here's all you need to know about the painful ‘disease of kings', from causes to treatment

Gout numbers are rising worldwide, proving that it’s not just Henry VIII who suffered from it. What foods cause the excruciatingly painful condition and should sufferers blame their parents
more

Are you walking fast enough? How speeding up can tackle obesity and decrease mortality risk

How walking briskly can improve your physical health
more

What happens to your body if you stop exercising?

This website is owned and published by Our Media Ltd. www.ourmedia.co.uk
© Our Media 2025