A significant portion of the adult population is falling short of exercise recommendations, with over half not engaging in the prescribed amount of physical activity. The NHS suggests that adults aged up to 64 should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activities, such as brisk walking or cycling, or 75 minutes of vigorous exercises like running each week.

Despite these guidelines, a recent survey involving 2,000 adults revealed that 55% are not meeting these exercise benchmarks. Alarmingly, 35% of those surveyed are active for no more than 60 minutes a week, which is less than half of the suggested duration. Additionally, 15% of participants admitted to doing no exercise at all, often citing a lack of time or motivation as primary barriers.

Common excuses for avoiding exercise included feeling too tired, or unsuitable weather conditions, whether too hot or too cold. Interestingly, some individuals even mentioned mundane tasks like laundry as a reason for not being more physically active.

This study, commissioned by Citroën, highlighted that the average British adult spends about six hours a day sitting and only accumulates around 6,500 steps daily.

In response, Citroën has partnered with Alex Bell, a 2021 Olympic finalist and current British 5km road champion, along with Andrew Henderson, her coach and the head coach at the Leeds England Athletics Hub. Together, they developed the ‘Charge Up In 30 Guide,’ a 30-minute workout designed to fit into the time it takes to charge an electric vehicle. This initiative aims to make incorporating exercise into busy schedules more manageable.

Henderson is head coach at the Leeds England Athletics Hub, and together with Alex and Citroën created the ‘Charge Up In 30 Guide’, a 30-minute workout which can be done in the time it takes to charge an electric vehicle.

Greg Taylor, managing director for Citroën UK, makers of the new ë-C3 said: “Sometimes life can get in the way of hitting your fitness goals, but it’s important that we try to make the time to keep ourselves healthy.

“With a busy schedule, it can be hard to find the time, but sacrificing 30 minutes on the sofa to get up for a walk or a run can make all the difference.”

The research, carried out via OnePoll, also found 91% of the parents polled actively encourage their children to be more active, with 50% concerned about their level of exercise.

Among the favourite activities for children were running (58%), playing football (53%), and dance (35%).

More than two thirds of parents (67%) said they exercise with their children – but for those that don’t, 22% felt it is more enjoyable doing it solo.

Greg Taylor added: “It can be fun to exercise as a family, not only does doing it together teach healthy habits, but it can help you grow familiar interests and bond over something new.

“This guide is aimed at the whole family, offering variations on each exercise. Creating a schedule where you set aside time for you and your family to get active can help in developing healthier routines.”