“This year, having seen countless friends doing it before, I ran the Great North Run (GNR). Exercise had never featured in a big way in my life before and I hated running (or so I thought). But I’ve found I’ve kept the exercise up since the GNR because I’ve come to realise I feel energised from running and am quite proud of my current fitness levels. I don’t want to be in a position where I have to start from scratch again, struggling to getting fit.” - Riem, Orthopaedic Surgeon

“I don't run huge distances but I do follow the same route each time: I find it lets me switch off my brain and clear my head. I find it particularly good after night shifts, which I do a lot of, as I feel like it helps my body clock return to normal.” - Paul, Charge Nurse, Cardiology

“I need to get the endorphins from exercise to help me feel like myself and remain level-headed, so I tend to work out or surf around five times a week. Although a gym is fine, I personally find exercising outdoors makes me feel better, more invigorated and, ultimately, more relaxed.” - Jonathan, Consultant in Intensive Care Medicine

Plus, don’t forget we live on an island and it’s not that big: once in a while, try to get your fill of coastal air and feel the improved wellbeing wash over you.

“Beach walks really help me to feel grounded and maintain my sanity. I try to be near the sea at least once a week, or even more if I can manage it.” - Charlotte, Speciality Doctor in Orthogeriatrics

Health professionals reveal their ultimate guide to wellness