The Movement Prescription (Konijn Podcasts)

Promising to transform your understanding and approach towards physical activity in primary care, The Movement Prescription podcast is a treasure trove of insights. Lifestyle and Physical Activity Champions, Dr Hussain Al-Zubaidi, Dr Callum Leese and Dr Suzy Scarlett, are here to paint a picture that moves away from rigorous exercises and lays focus on the importance of re-introducing movement into our daily lives. 

We have a line-up of exceptional guests offering their unique expertise. Listen to Russell Kane, the renowned comedian, and an advocate for lifestyle medicine, and Michele Zanini from the Italian Olympic triathlon team, share their insights on how physical activity can revolutionize health. Learn from Dr Emma Lunan and Dr Charlotte Marriott as they delve into managing long-term conditions and mental health with physical activity. We'll also explore the concept of green prescribing and the art of motivational interviewing with Dr Hamish Reid. So, tune in, subscribe for updates and join the conversation with the hashtag #activepractice on social media. Let's embark on a journey where small changes will lead to big things.

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

For the first episode of the Movement Prescription podcast, Hussain delves into the extraordinary life and achievements of one of the UK's most prominent lifestyle doctors. With a shared history as former colleagues, this episode ventures beyond the surface to address pressing questions surrounding our society's declining activity levels, despite a plethora of dedicated individuals, organisations, and charities striving for change.

The conversation delves into the heart of the matter, exploring the reasons behind the sobering statistic that reveals a 20% decrease in physical activity since the 1960s. Together, they navigate the complexities that underlie this challenge, shedding light on the barriers we face as a society and the potential avenues for rejuvenation.

A focal point of this episode is the role of healthcare professionals in the realm of lifestyle medicine. With insightful dialogue, they unravel the path to forging a meaningful presence in this evolving field. From the initial steps to embark upon, the essential qualifications to acquire, and the strategies to cultivate a thriving practice, Hussain and his esteemed guest offer invaluable guidance.

Discover the secrets to standing out in a competitive landscape, with practical insights on how to garner attention and recognition as a healthcare professional advocating for transformative lifestyle changes.

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

In this episode Hussain speaks with Peter Dutton from We Are Undefeatable and Zoe who suffered a debilitating stroke at a young age and used physical activity to help her recovery. Her story of determination and resilience is inspiring. Many patients with long term conditions are concerned around safety and often primary care staff can be unsure about promoting it to these groups. But physical activity is safe - the Faculty for Sport and Exercise Medicine published a Medical Consensus Statement on Risk, which says that for people with stable conditions, the benefits far outweigh the risks.

We Are Undefeatable is on a mission to support and inspire people living with long-term health conditions to find their way to move.

Recent campaign research shows that the NHS and healthcare professionals are the most trusted sources for advice on physical activity for people with health conditions, and that’s why We Are Undefeatable need your help to support the campaign and utilise its resources to help facilitate conversations and help your patients to move more in a way that works for them.

To encourage healthcare professionals and practice managers to join the movement, We Are Undefeatable have created a healthcare pack which includes the tools, resources and promotional materials to embed positive physical activity conversations and messaging into daily practice.

The promotional pack has a section for healthcare professionals including printable leaflets to pass onto patients, a conversation starter PDF, and a resource pack targeted at the health and care workforce which shares best practice, case studies and insights for people living with long term health conditions.

There is also a section for practice managers including: a campaign video file for surgery screens, promotional leaflets and posters, digital assets for social media channels, and a text messaging template to be added to patient management systems.

Sign up to the campaign supporter’s hub here weareundefeatable.co.uk/sign-up to download the promotional pack!

Have your say in We Are Undefeatable’s public consultation!

This September We Are Undefeatable are gathering ideas from the public and healthcare professionals on the type of tools and resources that are most needed to support people with health conditions to get active. These ideas will shape what We Are Undefeatable provides in the future and how the campaign works with partners locally and nationally. 

They’re keen to hear from people who live with health conditions, care for others who do, or have a professional interest in the area – for example healthcare professionals, or those who work in the charity or voluntary sector, sport or physical activity or in local or national government.

If this sounds interesting to you, please get involved and have your say. Click this link to complete the online questions from 4th – 30th September 2023.

Thank you for your support and We Are Undefeatable would hugely appreciate if you could share this with your colleagues and any wider networks.

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

The third episode, hosted by Suzy focuses on the power of physical activity for our mental health. In conversation with  Dr. Charlotte Marriott, an NHS psychiatrist, lifestyle medicine physician, and chair of the BSLM mental health special interest group. We delve deep into the myriad of benefits of physical activity on mental health both in terms of prevention, treatment of common mental health disorders, highlighting the biochemical effects of physical activity. We also discuss how being more active, often as part of a group programme, can begin to bridge the shocking mortality gap between people with severe mental illness and the general population, and ask if this is the most important pillar of health (or is it the gateway to others?). 

In this episode we highlight inspiring programs like Mind's Moving Towards Better Health, Park Run, and the SHAPE programme (Supporting Health and Promoting Exercise) and outline some interesting resources for clinicians wanting to know more (see also key resources and further reading below). We also touch on two of Suzy’s favourite topics, green prescribing and wild swimming. 

Don't miss this informative episode that will change your perspective on physical activity and its vital role in mental health. Listen, learn, and let's move towards better health together!

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

In this podcast, Callum explores the inspiring journey of Dr. Rob Lawson, a retired GP hailing from East Lothian. In this interview, we unravel the profound impact Dr. Lawson has made through his pioneering work in establishing the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine. As a visionary advocate for healthier living, Dr. Lawson brings to light the crucial role of advocacy within the realm of primary care.

Join us as we delve into the multifaceted aspects of his journey. We explore how Dr. Lawson's personal commitment to leading a healthier and more active life has not only enriched his own well-being, but also served as a powerful example to his patients and peers alike. 

Beyond individual transformations, Dr. Lawson sheds light on his experiences with impactful lobbying, advocating for systemic change and policy reform to prioritise lifestyle-oriented healthcare and physical activity. Rob makes a passionate appeal for us, as individuals working in health-care, to acts as advocates and vessels for change, acknowledging that every journey starts with small steps.

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

In this episode, Hussain engages in a thought-provoking conversation with two influential guests: Mike Farrar, the current Chair of UK Active, and Julie Davies, CEO of 'Doing Our Bit.' The discussion revolves around two main emergent themes that are crucial in today's healthcare landscape.

Julie Davies: Prioritizing Self Care and Workforce Wellbeing

Julie Davies, the passionate CEO of 'Doing Our Bit,' shares insights into the importance of self-care and workforce wellbeing within the healthcare sector. Doing Our Bit, an initiative created by NHS employees for the NHS, offers a comprehensive well-being platform. Julie emphasizes how this initiative has been a game-changer, decreasing sick leave by a remarkable 40%. The conversation delves into the significance of engaging with platforms like Doing Our Bit and using them as templates to build upon.

The discussion extends to the pressing need for system change within the NHS. Julie and Hussain explore the necessity for the healthcare system to address staff wellbeing, considering the allocation of protected time for healthcare professionals. Cultural issues within the healthcare sector are discussed, shedding light on the challenges and potential solutions. Dr Al-Zubaidi also shares his personal journey, evolving from a dedicated student of medicine to looking to lead a balance life to promote wellbeing, and looking to inspire others in the process. The conversation touches upon the active practice charter (APC) and how it can be used as an initial step to holistic healthcare.

Mike Farrar: The Significance of a Combined Approach to Physical Activity

Mike Farrar, the Chair of UK Active, emphasizes the importance of a combined approach to physical activity, bridging the gap between physical activity providers and the health sector. With thousands of members ranging from large nationwide gym networks to small independent providers, UK Active serves as a vital intermediary. Farrar discusses the need for effective coordination and engagement between these entities, highlighting UK Active's role in facilitating this collaboration.

Additionally, the podcast explores the concept of social prescribing and its potential in promoting physical activity as a form of preventive healthcare. By integrating physical activity into social prescriptions, healthcare professionals can enhance their patients' overall well-being, addressing both physical and mental health concerns.

 Overall, this episode provides valuable insights into the critical aspects of self-care, workforce wellbeing, and the integration of physical activity into healthcare practices. The engaging conversation between Dr Hussain Al-Zubaidi, Mike Farrar, and Julie Davies serves as a catalyst for change, inspiring listeners to prioritize their well-being and encouraging healthcare professionals to consider innovative approaches to holistic patient care.

Links
https://www.rcgp.org.uk/physicalactivity

https://doingourbit.org.uk/

https://www.ukactive.com/

Follow us on Instagram: @themovementprescriptionpodcast

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

Join us for the next episode of the Movement Prescription podcast, which focuses on how we can realistically encourage our patients with chronic disease to  move more. 

Suzy interviews GP, Sports Exercise consultant and fellow enthusiast Dr Emma Lunan, who was involved with Movement for Health from its inception. Movement for Health is a coalition of Scotland’s leading health charities who are committed to support the least active people living with long term health conditions to be more physically active, inspired by The Richmond Group and the Movement for All programme. 

During this episode these two frontline GPs discuss the realities and possibilities of incorporating physical activity interventions into routine general practice, with all patients including those with chronic disease, being aware of the barriers and challenges (often starting with ourselves). A cautiously optimistic account, which we hope you will enjoy.

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

Join us for a conversation with Richard Crick, the head of ‘Man v Fat’, the first of our Mini Moves. We delve into the unique challenges men face on their weight loss journeys and explore how 'Man v Fat' provides a supportive community, fostering camaraderie, and offering invaluable resources. We offer an overview of the league where losers win, and highlight ways of how to get you or your patients involved. 

Find out more on the website: https://manvfat.com/

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

Join us in a conversation with Dr Hamish Reid, a sports and exercise medicine consultant, on motivational interviewing. Having helped create the Moving Medicine resource and the Active Conversations motivational interview course, Hamish is a leading light in motivational interviewing. Hamish explores how we can bring up physical activity in conversation, as well as quick, practical and easy ways to inspire change in people. Learn about the amazing tools you can utilise in primary care such as the ‘confidence question’ and ‘developing discrepancy’. I’ve no doubt it’ll influence your conversations, and maybe inspire you too!

https://movingmedicine.ac.uk/activeconversations/

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

Join us for a short episode, with a brief conversation into childhood physical inactivity with our guest, Rachel Knight from the Welsh Institute for Physical Activity, Health, and Sport (WIPAHS). Rachel is a physiotherapist by training and now an academic, exploring childhood physical activity and how to address it. With some ongoing work assessing how clinicians promote physical activity in children if you have time please complete the survey: Paediatric Physical Activity & Sedentary Behaviour. With 80% of our adolescents failing to meet physical activity guidelines you input to urgently address this is required!

You can find the survey at: https://swansea.onlinesurveys.ac.uk/paediatric-physical-activity-sedentary-behaviour-copy

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

Join us for a unique episode where Russell Kane, the dynamic comedian, takes center stage alongside our host Hussain (@irondoctorhaz). From their partnership on Channel 4's Steph’s Packed Lunch to Russell's health journey and co-founding Jolt, they explore longevity, evidence-based supplements, and innovative marketing. Delve into the scientific intricacies of health span, the impact of media on perceptions, and the role of comedy in healthcare. Russell's humor weaves throughout, creating a journey of laughter, learning, and life-enhancing insights, bridging the worlds of comedy and healthcare.

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

Join us for our third mini podcast where Suzy was introduced all things RED with founder Hannah Beecham MBE. Hear about this National movement which encourages its community of REDers to move every day in January (and beyond) for their mental health. 

As we emerge on the right side of the shortest day we reflect on how hard it can be to move enough in the winter months. Hannah saw first hand with her Mum just how difficult operant movement can be in managing mental health, and eight years on how far this movement has come; the community is over 275,000 strong. This year they have joined forces with the National Academy for Social Prescribing. Tune in to hear more… 

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

Have you ever tried to break bad-habits or make new ones, only to fail? For me new years resolutions often act as a painful reminder! 

In this podcast with behavioural economist, Noemi Molnar, we explore the science behind behaviour that shapes our decision making processes. Using this she provides some hints and tips we can use to help get our patients more active through building new habits (and breaking unwanted ones).

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

Join Suzy in conversation with Duncan Galbraith, the founder of World Walking (https://worldwalking.org/), as he explains the story behind the movement that has walked to the moon.

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

Join us for a conversation with Dr Edney Boston-Griffiths as we talk about physical activity and cardiovascular health. Edney is a consultant in interventional cardiology with a passion for physical activity and lifestyle medicine. With hypertension and hypercholesteremia management in primary-care fairly bread and butter we delve deeper into the specifics of physical activity advice. Is saying walk a bit more enough? Or can we give more tailored advice for managing these conditions? Join us to find out more!

Mentioned in this episode:

• https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng136
• https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/lipid-modification-cvd-prevention/management/lipid-therapy-primary-prevention-of-cvd/

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

This episode we are joined by Craig Blain from Move Consulting where we discuss how we can successfully deliver physical activity projects in primary care.  His breath of experience and knowledge has meant he has lead and been involved in numerous physical activity projects working with a number of stakeholders. 

Key points discussed:
- Importance of the terminology and language used.
- Projects should be informed by the service user and inform the design.
- When starting a physical activity project consider the COM model capability, opportunity, and motivation.
- Tips to help create business plans and service evaluation. 
- Craig shares with us his miracle question…
- How to address physical activity in an environment where patients generally only engage with primary care with a problem. 

To contact Craig and Move Consulting please see their website: https://moveconsulting.co.uk/

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

Are you ready to get on your bike and ride? Tune in to our latest podcast featuring cycling legend Mark Beaumont (redefining what is possible on two wheels), and Angus Rodney from Love 2 Ride (the home of cycling encouragement) which we hope will have you dusting off your cycling gear to rediscover the childhood mischief to be had  on two wheels. 

A refreshingly practical conversation with no shortage of inspirational stories and plenty of  information to help anyone who may wish to get into cycling. We discuss a variety of barriers and how different groups and organisations are leading the change and overcoming many of these. 

Are you already a cyclist? Are you able to incorporate this into your working days from time to time? Does your practice encourage staff and/or patients to cycle? What are your own barriers? We’d love to know your thoughts after tuning into this episode. 

‘Young and old we can all ride further’ (from Mark’s podcast series Endurance, which is well worth a listen).

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

Are you a cold water convert? Or still not sure? Regardless, join us for a conversation with Rachel Ashe, the Founder of Mental Health Swims. In this short episode, we talk swimming (in both hot and colder water) and the power of community to improve and empower mental health.

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

Tune in to this week's episode as Hussain sits down with Chrissie Wellington, the Health and Wellbeing Lead at parkrun UK, to delve into the incredible phenomenon that is parkrun. Many of you will know Chrissie as the greatest female long distance triathlete of all time, winning a mind boggling 4 Ironman world titles! They discuss the importance of shifting perspectives and aims from physical activity as we age. parkrun is celebrating its 20th year, and has become more than just a run/jog or walk in the park; it's a powerful social prescribing initiative that has touched countless lives. Join us as we explore how parkrun has transformed communities and individuals alike, and discover how healthcare professionals can engage with this movement through initiatives like the RCGP parkrun Practice. Get ready for an inspiring conversation on health, wellbeing, and the magic of parkrun!

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

What do you think of when someone mentions resistance training? Is it rust filled testosterone fuelled gyms? Or a Californian-style sweat free embodiment of perfection? Or something else? 

Whatever you think it is, resistance training should form a crucial part of our lives. And is even recommended for everyone by the WHO. Join me in a conversation with GP and lifestyle expert Dr John Sykes as we discuss the power of resistance training whilst also acknowledge the number of challenges in getting widescale uptake. John emphasizes the need collaboration, debunks exercise misconceptions, and highlights the importance of personalized approaches in sustaining physical activities. The conversation addresses the efficacy of resistance training in disease prevention and promotes safe engagement in resistance training for overall health. We explore practical ways to normalize resistance training in primary care and explore how to tailor recommendations.

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

Join Dr. Hussain Al-Zubaidi as he explores the magic of nature with Maggy Blagrove from Open Minds Active. This UK-based organisation is all about bringing people together outdoors for better mental health.

What Open Minds Active Does:

• Open Minds Active helps people reconnect with nature through outdoor activities like wild swimming and yoga.
• They have a team of experts who make sure everyone feels welcome and included.

Their Core Values:

• Community: Creating a friendly space where everyone can have fun together.
• Equality: Making sure everyone, no matter their background, can enjoy nature.
• Environment: Respecting and enjoying the great outdoors.
• Resilience: Helping people feel mentally strong through outdoor movement.
• Adventure: Encouraging exploration and excitement in nature.
• Self-care and Care of Others: Teaching skills to cope with life's challenges and supporting each other.

Nature's Healing Effects:

• Spending time in nature reduces stress and improves mental well-being.
• Activities like wild swimming and yoga outdoors can boost resilience.
• Inclusive Communities:
• Open Minds Active creates safe spaces where everyone can join in outdoor fun, regardless of who they are.
• Many people have found joy and support in this community.

Open Minds Active aims to reach more people and spread the benefits of outdoor activities for mental health.

Discover the power of nature for your well-being with Dr. Hussain Al-Zubaidi and Maggy Blagrove. Open Minds Active is making outdoor adventures accessible to all, showing that nature truly has the ability to heal and unite us.

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

Suzy, Lubna, and Dimple discuss the importance of integrating movement into diverse communities to empower patients from ethnic minority backgrounds. Lubna, a clinical specialist pharmacist, stresses a holistic approach in cardiovascular clinics, addressing lifestyle factors beyond diabetes control. Dimple, a GP, underlines the value of creative health promotion through lifestyle medicine pillars. The conversation focuses on cultural sensitivity in healthcare, offering tailored interventions and inclusive community activities to overcome barriers and promote physical activity effectively. Speakers also emphasize the role of language nuances and building trust with patients to improve health outcomes and well-being.

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

Urban green and blue spaces (UGS) are hugely beneficial to human and planetary health. With the environments in which we live, and the rapid growth of urbanization, we as healthcare professionals have an advocacy role in promoting green space. 
Join me as I chat with Sarah and Dan from the Centre for Sustainable Healthcare. We talk about the importance of green space for health, some of the amazing ongoing examples of promotion in health care and the offerings on the table. This includes NHS Forest, being led by Dan and Sarah, which promises to give trees to any GP practice!!

Greener Practice – Greener Practice – UK's primary care sustainability network

Green Exercise | University of Essex

Tree Equity Score (free, online, mapping tool): https://uk.treeequityscore.org

NHS Forest website: https://nhsforest.org/

Natural England review of reviews: https://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/5939107801595904

Food growing toolkit, here's the link to it in the networks: https://networks.sustainablehealthcare.org.uk/resources/food-growing-toolkit-healthcare-settings

Recent WHO Publication:
Urban Green Space for Health: a review of the evidence Urban green spaces and health (who.int)

Recent Paper published in Lifestyle Medicine:
Urban green and blue spaces for influencing physical activity in the United Kingdom: A narrative review of the policy and evidence - Leese - 2024 - Lifestyle Medicine

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

Join me in a conversation with Robert Jamison, a pioneering architect known for the BBC/Netflix show “Your Home Made Perfect”. Robert offers an insight into his life, and how yoga plays a central part of his daily routine and well-being. And we talk about how the convenience of 21st century building and architecture is engineering movement out of our lives, and the various ways we can address this (including the squat toilet!). Robert has a unique perception of space, which inspires possibility, and challenges the norm.

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/

Suzy interviews Dr. Polly Swan, an elite rower and medical doctor, on the Movement Prescription podcast. They delve into Polly's Olympic success, medical career, and balancing both endeavors. The discussion covers Polly's challenges, including injuries and overtraining, and the support she received. Polly shares her pandemic training experience, emphasizing the importance of outdoor activities. They explore Polly's Olympic journey, partnership with Helen Glover, and the legacy of inspiring others through sports. The conversation touches on empowering young women through sports, Polly's TEDx talk, and promoting physical activity in the medical field.

Produced using funding from NHS Tayside Educational Fund and the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

Find us at https://themovementprescription.co.uk/