Feeling nervous about exercise? You’re not alone. Many people worry about not being “fit enough” or not knowing where to start. But moving more doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about finding what works for you and starting small.

The good news? Our health and wellbeing service, Active North Yorkshire, makes it easier than ever.

We’ve compiled a selection of free resources to help you take your first step to get moving and feel better. When you’re ready to go further, an Active North Yorkshire membership gives you access to local facilities, classes, lifestyle and wellbeing support and an uplifting community to keep you motivated.

We have launched the Active North Yorkshire service to use our leisure venues as health and well-being hubs.

The service is committed to supporting everyone in the community to be active, with an increased focus on improving the physical and mental health and well-being of our communities.

We have reinforced our commitment to transforming health and wellbeing provision by approving a multi-million-pound investment that will see a total of £36 million invested in four key sites, as part of a new leisure investment strategy.

The plans will see the funding focused on improving Active North Yorkshire sites in Selby and Skipton as well as Pickering and Whitby. The Pickering and Whitby locations are currently operated by Everyone Active and are due to become part of Active North Yorkshire in 2027.

The investment will see improved gym facilities, additional studio space and an overhaul of swimming pools along with better changing rooms. There will also be more accessible pool access, including Changing Places facilities for people with additional needs and new reception areas and public spaces across the four sites.

An additional £3 million is to be invested in a phased programme to upgrade gym and fitness equipment across a further 12 leisure sites overseen by us.

Being active isn’t about marathons or heavy weights - it’s about feeling better every day. Moving more can boost your mood, improve sleep and give you more energy. Even the smallest steps count - walking the dog, playing with your children, dancing in the kitchen, or joining a local group. There’s no “right” way - just your way.

If you’re ready to start on your journey to getting more active, then begin with simple changes like a short walk at lunch or a few stretches at home. Choose activities you enjoy, go at your own pace and build movement into your routine. No fancy kit is needed. Click to hear some inspirational stories from Active North Yorkshire members and how they got started - and discover resources to help you do the same.