People returning to exercise
If it has been a while, gentle walks and easy rides are a kind way back in.
Get Active for Spring: An Easy Start Guide
Warmer mornings and longer evenings make it easier to move more. Here is the simple kit we would start with for walks, easy rides, park games and yoga outside, so getting going feels good from the first day.
What do you need to get moving?
Easy, beginner-friendly kit, in the order we would pick it up.
START HERE
Everyday walking shoes and trainers from many brands.
What to prioritise
Comfort first
Walking Shoes & Trainers
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LIGHT LAYER
Fleece jackets and tops for cool mornings and evenings.
What to prioritise
Easy to layer
Fleeces
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STAY HYDRATED
Reusable bottles for walks, rides and park sessions.
What to prioritise
Easy sipping
Water Bottles
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EASY RIDES
Road, mountain and everyday helmets for adult riders.
What to prioritise
Ride safely
Adult Bike Helmets
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STRETCH OUTSIDE
Yoga mats in different thicknesses, plus mat bags.
What to prioritise
Roll out anywhere
Yoga Mats
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PARK PLAY
Flying discs, kites and boomerangs for open spaces.
What to prioritise
Fun for all
Discs, Kites & Boomerangs
Shop the RangeWhat to look for
Comfort over speed
Choose shoes that feel cushioned and roomy in the toes from the first try. Walk around in them before you commit, and try them with the socks you plan to wear.
Layers you can peel off
Spring mornings can start cool and turn warm quickly. A light fleece over a breathable top lets you adjust as you warm up, then it ties round your waist or packs into a bag.
A helmet that fits
A helmet should sit level just above your eyebrows and feel snug without pinching. Riders in Australia must wear an approved helmet by law, so look for one marked as meeting the Australian standard.
Something you enjoy
The best activity is the one you keep coming back to. Pick gear for whatever sounds fun, such as a walk with a friend or yoga on the grass, and build from there.
Who this guide is for
Families and friends
Park games and short rides are easy to share, with kit that suits most ages.
Busy beginners
Shoes and a bottle by the door make a quick walk easy to fit into the day.
Your spring starter kit at a glance
| Item | Why it matters | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Walking shoes | Keep your feet comfortable on longer walks | Replace them when the cushioning feels flat |
| Light fleece | Takes the chill off early starts | Wear a breathable top underneath |
| Water bottle | Makes it easy to drink regularly | Fill it before you head out the door |
| Bike helmet | Protects your head and is required by law | Check the fit each time you ride |
| Yoga mat | Gives you a clean base on the grass | Pick a thicker mat for bumpy ground |
| Flying disc | Turns a park visit into a game | Start close and step back as you warm up |
| Fitness tracker | Shows your progress over the weeks | Track minutes moved rather than speed |
Look after your kit
- Air out walking shoes after each use and stuff them with paper if they get wet.
- Wash fleeces inside out on a gentle cycle so they stay soft for longer.
- Rinse bottles daily and let them dry with the lid off.
- Replace a bike helmet after any crash, even if it looks fine.
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Frequently asked questions
How do I get active again after a break?
Start with short, easy sessions, like a ten-minute walk, and add a little more each week. Aim to move on most days rather than saving it all for one big effort, because consistency builds fitness and confidence. If you have a health condition, are pregnant or have not exercised for a long time, have a chat with your GP before you begin.
What is the easiest way to start exercising in spring?
Walking is hard to beat. It needs no booking, suits most fitness levels and gets you outside while the weather is mild. Once walking feels comfortable, mix in an easy bike ride, a game in the park or some gentle yoga to keep things interesting.
Do I need special shoes for walking?
You do not need anything technical for paths and parks, but comfort matters. Look for cushioning, a flexible sole and enough room to wiggle your toes. If you plan to walk on dirt tracks, a shoe with more grip will feel steadier underfoot.
What should I wear to exercise on cool spring mornings?
Layers work best. Start with a breathable top, add a light fleece or jacket you can take off once you warm up, and wear comfortable shorts or leggings. The spring sun can still be strong in Australia, so a hat and sunscreen are worth bringing too.
How much exercise should a beginner aim for?
Australia's physical activity guidelines suggest most adults build up to around two and a half to five hours of moderate activity across the week. That sounds like a lot, but short walks count and you can get there gradually. Start where you are, increase slowly and rest when your body asks for it.
Explore our Top Sports
Step outside and start gently
Small steps add up. Pick one thing you enjoy, keep the kit simple and let the warmer weather do the rest.
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