Regular physical activity is good for our bodies and minds, but it can be difficult to get started – especially if we're not particularly sporty or have not done any exercise for a while.

Here are some simple ideas to build more activity into your day, tips to stick with it and free exercise plans to help you get going.

Not all of us are naturally sporty and it can be hard to know where to begin.

Start small by finding easy ways to fit more activity into your daily life and build up from there. For example:

• stand rather than sit when you can, like on train or bus journeys, or try getting off the bus a stop or two early and walking the rest of the way
• if you have to drive somewhere, park a little further away than you need to – even just the far end of the car park adds a little extra activity
• take the stairs instead of the lift or walk up escalators when you get the chance
• try making the school run a school walk or school cycle a few times a week

Every bit of extra activity you do matters, no matter how big or small. But the more you do, the more you benefit.

That's why finding a way to make lasting changes and increase your activity levels in the long term can make a real difference to your life.

Here are 6 ways you can make a routine of being active.

You're far more likely to stick with something if you enjoy it. Give one of the exercise plans below a go, or try searching for an online programme

Strength-building activities – like carrying heavy grocery bags, or an online pilates or strength workout video – help keep muscles, joints and bones strong. Aim to do this at least twice a week.

Set a reminder (you could use the alarm or timer on your phone) to get up and move every 30 minutes during the day. Try stretching during TV ad breaks or pacing around the kitchen while the kettle's boiling.

Whether it's steps, distance or active minutes, setting a daily target and hitting it will feel great! Tracking apps – like the NHS Active 10 app or a health app on your phone – can help, but even just a checklist on a piece of paper will do.

If your friends and family want to be more active too, try engaging everyone's competitive side with challenges like seeing who can do the most steps or cover the most distance in a day.

Set yourself activity goals and rewards. You could go for a long walk then treat yourself to an episode of your favourite TV show.

Being active is great for your physical and mental health – not only can it help manage stress, ease any joint or back pain and boost your energy levels, but it can also improve sleep and lift your mood.

We also know that people who increase their physical activity alongside improving their diet are often more successful at losing weight and keeping it off.

At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity over a week (around 20 minutes or so a day) is recommended, but every minute counts, so start gradually and build up from there. Some is good, and more is better!