Brits ditch exercise in December

Most of us get into the Christmas spirit wholeheartedly – putting any hopes of starting a new fitness regime on the back burner until the New Year.  And while the thought of heading outside when it’s cold, dark and rainy might fill us with dread, exercise could play a key role in keeping our mental and physical wellbeing in good shape – as we prepare for a tough winter ahead.

New research from Sue Ryder reveals that over half (52%) of Brits exercise less in December which in turn leads to us to having less energy (40%), feeling down (32%) and more stressed and irritable (20%) in the season that’s meant to bring goodwill and joy.

This December, Sue Ryder is encouraging people to banish the December blues and sign up to the December Daily Dash – and we’re not talking about last minute Christmas shopping. Lace up your trainers and head out to walk, jog or run 5k every day in December to raise vital funds for the charity’s bereavement, palliative and neurological services.

Aston spoke to James Wright, head of public fundraising at Sue Ryder and founders of December Dash Jackie & Mark Smith.