The ‘Great Lock-In’ is here. Are you ready to commit ruthlessly to your fitness goals?

The latest super-earnest trend demands we concentrate all our willpower on exercise and healthy eating this winter. It is not the kind of lock-in I was hoping for, says Guardian columnist Emma Beddington

‘It’s my second home!’ Gen Z and the sudden, surprising boom of luxury gyms

Expensive fitness facilities might seem a tough sell in a cost of living crisis. But for young people in crowded or dilapidated house shares, the high price for a haven can be worth paying

Venus Williams, LeBron James, Cristiano Ronaldo – elite athletes are extending their careers into their 40s. How?

Athletes are commonly thought to peak in their 20s. But some top sports stars are extending their careers across decades

Is it true that … you should eat protein immediately after working out?

Consuming protein within an hour of finishing your gym session is recommended, but don’t neglect regular meals

‘Pop it in front of the TV and run on the spot’: 11 simple fitness hacks that work (some are even free)

From parkrun to a hi-vis belt, our readers share the tips and affordable kit that helped make them fitter

These exercise apps reward steps with freebies – but which ones are worth the effort?

The walk to work could earn you rewards such as cheaper coffee or Amazon discounts. We put the apps through their paces

The zone zero secret: how ultra-low-stress exercise can change your life

Want to be healthier and happier, without spending hours slogging away in the gym? The answer could be a state just above total inactivity

Japanese interval walking: the viral exercise trend that could put a spring in your step

Alternating between fast and slow walking is particularly suited to people who do not do much regular exercise

The best walking pads and under-desk treadmills, tried and tested to turn your workday into a workout

Sedentary lifestyles are bad for us, but which under-desk treadmills and walking pads are worth the cost? Our expert stepped up to find out

Is it true that … you need to lift heavy weights to build muscle mass?

Most people who want larger muscles head to the gym. But gains can be made at home without any equipment at all

7,000 steps a day could be enough to improve health, say researchers

Target easier to achieve than 10,000 steps and linked to 37% reduction in cancer deaths

The one change that worked: I hated exercise – until I put a bike in front of my TV

The rule is: no telly unless I’m working out. So I pedal moderately while the football is on, and sprint during the ad breaks. I’ve never had more energy

Is it true that … it’s harder to build muscle mass and strength as you age?

Getting fit can be more difficult as you grow older, but a few tweaks to aerobic and resistance training can have a positive impact and reduce the risk of disease

‘Life is brutal. Running helps’: the 17-year-old who faced despair – and ran the length of Britain

Marcus Skeet has dealt with a lot: diabetes, anxiety, depression, OCD and the pressures of being a young carer. A few years ago, he reached his lowest point. Then he began working towards an extraordinary goal

Aqua lungs: how Rod Stewart’s underwater swimming may help his singing

Singer trains underwater like Frank Sinatra once did and scientists say it may be useful in maintaining vocal prowess