Healthy living is wise

With winter well and truly settled in, there is no excuse for us to remain couch potatoes

Pastimes as simple as strolling down the Corniche can bring both personal pleasure and the opportunity to share time with family and friends. Reem Mohammed / The National

The cooler weather of the past few days has brought many joys. As temperatures have dropped, gardens have begun to bloom and many of us have found a new spring to our step. Winter is the perfect time to take up, or to recommence, fun outdoor activities.

Pastimes as simple as strolling down the Corniche, kicking a ball around a park or taking a leisurely bicycle ride can bring both personal pleasure and the opportunity to share time with family and friends.

Now that we've seen the end of the summer heat that has forced us to conduct our lives indoors, we should pledge to a healthier regime. As The National has reported, only 17 per cent of children get the hour-a-day of moderate physical activity that is recommended by health authorities. Adult can change that by example.

The winter sun is a great source of vital vitamin D, and even a small amount of exercise combined with a sensible diet can keep us all healthy into the new year and beyond.