‘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

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

Experience: I’ve walked across three countries in a straight line

I didn’t train for my first attempt and got stuck on a mountain with no signal, darkness falling and hypothermia setting in

‘It got messy’: the good, the bad and the sneezy of testing hay fever remedies

This week: hay fever cures that actually work; festival essentials; and the best SPFs, tested

Is it true that … there’s no gain without pain?

Feeling the burn is your body’s way of signalling effort, but you don’t always have to suffer to make progress

I ditched the gym and you can too – here are six ways to get fit without it

Whether you enjoy ‘rucking’, walking, running or making your own sandbags, life after winding up your monthly membership can be your healthiest and happiest ever

I vowed to never exercise again. Then along came Ultimate Frisbee

I used to be addicted to exercise in all its most joyless, soulless forms. It took a flying object to show me the magnetic joy of play