Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of encouraging exercise to improve national resistance against the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Government wants people to remain fit and active at all times. The Chief Medical Officer is clear that being physically active is very important to long-term health and crucial for keeping people healthy during the ongoing pandemic. Evidence suggests that regular physical activity can promote good physical health and help manage stress and anxiety.

People are able to go outside for a walk, run, cycle or any other independent way they normally get active outside. The Government has published detailed guidance for members of the public on how they can exercise outside and for outdoor facilities on re-opening, should they wish to do so.

Those who are identified as vulnerable, older people and those with existing health conditions, should make every effort to stay active. There are many things people can do indoors. People who recovering from feeling unwell with potential COVID-19 should avoid strenuous activity as they recover.