IN the past year, many of us have embraced physical activity to keep healthy and maintain our mental wellbeing.

Our research shows that 32 per cent of the nation is exercising more than they were before the pandemic.

Now, it’s important we keep those good habits going. With one in five of us already exercising less as the restrictions ease, we are at an important turning point.

The benefits of physical activity in a challenging time are especially clear for older people. In fact, 59 per cent told us exercising during the pandemic has helped them stay physically and mentally healthy.

At Anchor Hanover, we’ve seen first-hand the transformative power that staying active can have on older people’s wellbeing and sense of fulfilment.

During the pandemic, many residents have embraced specialist technology enabling them to cycle, which has inspired our Get Set, Cycle challenge – a fun way to keep up good fitness habits and bring people together, following what has been a difficult year for us all.

With cycling being the second most popular form of exercise throughout the pandemic and with the start of the Tour de France later this month, there’s never been a better time to get on your bike.

We want everyone to get involved and help us cycle the distance of the Tour de France.

We’re excited to see what can be achieved when we come together.

To find out more, please visit: anchorhanover.org.uk/getsetcycle

JANE ASHCROFT CBE

Chief executive of Anchor Hanover, England’s largest not-for-profit provider of care and housing for people in later life