DORSET organisations are getting behind a fitness campaign.

The Better Health campaign has a focus on recovering and improving the nation’s health, getting the public more active and eating healthily.

It is supported by Active Dorset, Public Health Dorset, Dorset Council and Livewell Dorset which are promoting it locally.

More than 60 per cent of adults in the UK are considered overweight or obese. Extra weight can lead to a build up of pressure around vital organs, making it more difficult for the body to fight disease, including, cancer, heart disease and coronavirus.

Those within a healthy weight range are at less of a risk of becoming critically ill with coronavirus.

The campaign will begin by supporting people on their individual weight loss journeys but also has a further aim of supplying advice and aiding people with quitting smoking, drinking less and supporting mental health issues.

Martin Kimberley, Active Dorset's chief executive, said: "The Covid-19 situation has led to many of us re-evaluating our health and recognising that we can make some positive changes to live a healthier lifestyle, by both getting active and adjusting our diets.

“Small changes to our habits can lead to big health improvements and reduce the burden on our NHS, the time is now to make a lasting difference to our health and wellbeing."

Participants can make use of a variety of tools to help manage their weight loss, including an NHS 12 week weight loss plan. The weight loss plan, available as both an app and online, promotes safe and sustainable weight loss, based on prior evidence.

It enables users to make healthier choices, providing up-to-date healthy eating and physical activity advice in a magazine-style format which enables users to keep track of their calorie intake, fruit and veg portions, physical activity level and teaches them skills to prevent weight gain.

Those looking to start their fitness journey are invited to register with LiveWell Dorset, which is offering free, personalised advice and guidance to Dorset residents who are looking to develop a healthier lifestyle.

For further information, visit www.livewelldorset.co.uk.